Daily Devotions
Ecclesiastes
"A time to laugh"
Text: Ecclesiastes 3:4
OBSERVATIONS OF LIFE II
Life has many intriguing features. Each must be observed and carefully interpreted.
“A time to weep,
And a time to laugh;
A time to mourn,
And a time to dance.”
Ecclesiastes 3:4
1. “A time to weep”
a) Many things can cause tears to come:
i) Illness
ii) Loss
iii) Trouble
iv) Death
b) Sometimes tears come unbidden.
c) Copious tears may be shed.
d) Life can seem so meaningless and hopeless.
“Weeping may endure for a night,
But joy comes in the morning.”
Psalm 30:5
2. “And a time to laugh”
a) The word “laugh” may be literally understood.
b) But it is best to understand it symbolically.
i) It reflects healing of a wounded heart.
ii) It speaks of hope.
iii) It speaks also of a better future.
iv) There is new strength and courage.
v) Weeping will not endure forever.
3. “A time to mourn”
a) Many things can cause the heart to mourn.
b) Sometimes, the mourning could be felt as a nation and not just individually.
c) Mourning can take place.
i) When a national leader dies.
ii) When disease plagues a nation (Covid-19).
iii) When people fear the dark cloud that looms in the horizon.
iv) When war breaks out.
v) When national disaster occurs.
4. “A time to dance”
a) A dance represents a number of things:
i) For the community (nation)
ii) For the individual
b) It can express:
i) Hope in the heart for the future again.
ii) Joy and relief that the period of mourning is over.
iii) Courage to face the challenges of life.
ANOTHER SET OF ANTITHETICAL STATEMENTS
These sets of antithetical statements help us understand the broad spectrum of life. There will always be upsets and upheavals. The challenge is to look beyond all the problems with a positive heart and mind. And with faith in God, we can face the future with confidence.