How does Ecclesiastes 3:14 emphasize God's eternal and unchanging nature? Text in Focus Ecclesiastes 3:14 — “I know that everything God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God does it so that they should fear Him.” Key Observations • Solomon speaks with certainty: “I know.” • “Everything God does” is comprehensive—no exceptions. • God’s works “endure forever,” pointing to permanence. • Human effort cannot alter His work: “nothing can be added… or taken.” • The intended response is reverent awe: “so that they should fear Him.” Why God’s Works Endure Forever • His actions flow from His eternal nature (Psalm 90:2). • What He decrees is fixed in His sovereign will (Isaiah 46:9-10). • His purposes never collide with error or limitation, so they never need revision. Nothing Added, Nothing Taken • Completeness: God’s plans are already perfect; additions would only mar them. • Protection: Nothing in creation can subtract from His intent (Job 42:2). • Security: Believers can rest knowing His promises are untouchable (Numbers 23:19). Fear That Leads to Worship • “Fear” here is reverent awe, not terror (Proverbs 1:7). • Recognizing God’s unchangeable nature anchors true worship (Psalm 33:8-11). • Awe fosters obedience; we align with what cannot be altered rather than resist it. Supporting Passages • Malachi 3:6 — “For I, the LORD, do not change.” • James 1:17 — “With Him there is no variation or shifting shadow.” • Hebrews 13:8 — “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Psalm 102:25-27 — Creation will wear out, “but You remain.” • Revelation 1:8 — “I am the Alpha and the Omega… who is and who was and who is to come.” Living It Out • Trust: Anchor hopes in promises that can never fail. • Humility: Submit plans to the One whose counsel stands forever. • Stability: In changing times, rehearse Scriptures that highlight His constancy. • Worship: Let awe of His eternal works shape daily praise and obedience. |
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