The Meaning of Life (Ecclesiastes 12)

What is the best advice you've ever received?

As a group, read Ecclesiastes 12:1-8.

Verses 2-7 are a description of how life changes as we grow old. Discuss what you think the following expressions are describing about the aging process:

• "the sun and the light and the moon and the stars are darkened"
• "the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men are bent"
• "the doors on the street are shut -- when the sound of grinding is low"
  
• "they are afraid also of what is high, and terrors are in the way"
• "the mourners go about the streets"
• "the dust returns to the earth as it was"

Why do you think Solomon was painting such a negative picture of the aging process?

Verse one says, "Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth..." Why is it better to be thinking about God when you are young rather than when you get old?

Do you think it is easier to serve God when you are young or when you are old? Why?

Read verses 13-14. What do you think it means to "fear God"? Which of God's commandments are easy to keep? Which ones are more difficult to keep?

Reread verse 14 again and just silently contemplate its words for a moment. Is this an encouraging verse or an intimidating verse? Why? Does your faith in Jesus change the way you look at this verse? Should it?

Using your own words, what do you think it means to "Remember your Creator" and "Fear God and keep His commandments"?

How will this discussion impact your life in the coming week?