Daily Devotions
Ecclesiastes
"A time to love"
Text: Ecclesiastes 3:8
OBSERVATIONS OF LIFE VI
The last set of observations of life was written. This list of observations must not be seen as an exhaustive list. Rather, it serves as an example of how life must be observed. Much may be learned about life through careful observations!
“A time to love,
And a time to hate;
A time of war,
And a time of peace.”
Ecclesiastes 3:8
1. “A time to love”
a) It is normal to have love in the heart:
i) For the family
ii) For the community
iii) For the nation
b) Love was clearly taught:
i) By Moses
ii) By the priests and prophets
c) Love however was not easily found or practise.
2. “A time to hate”
a) This is a more complex thought to understand.
b) Solomon was not saying that “hatred” is good.
i) But “hatred” is all around.
ii) There is so much hate in the world.
iii) No country is free from this problem.
iv) Hatred and love exist though they are opposites.
c) Hatred does not always have to be sinful.
This is an important thought to consider carefully.
d) Examples of hatred that is not sinful:
i) Hatred of wickedness.
ii) Hatred of promotion of evil.
iii) Hatred of cruel criminal activities.
3. “A time of war”
a) We may not wage war against another nation.
b) But what if we are under attack?
c) We need to accept that war may occur.
d) We are allowed to defend:
i) Ourselves
ii) Our nation
e) The world has seen many wars waged.
Two global wars may be noted:
i) WW 1 (1914-1921)
ii) WW 2 (1939-1945)
4. “And a time of peace”
a) Nobody wants war indefinitely.
b) Millions of lives are lost because of war.
c) Untold suffering of many victims of war.
d) Peace is welcome!
i) Countries must be restored.
ii) Wounds must be healed.
iii) Peace must be preserved.
ENDING ON A NOTE OF WAR AND PEACE
This was done very astutely by Solomon. The name of this wise king of Israel was well-chosen. His name means “Peace”. Israel had many enemies. Everyone loses when war is waged. Solomon chose the path of peace!
He was wise to speak of a time of love and a time of peace. They are far better options than a time of hate and a time of war.