How should Ecclesiastes 12:7 shape our priorities and life decisions today? Remembering What Returns and What Remains Ecclesiastes 12:7: “and the dust returns to the ground from which it came, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.” The Central Truth • Life in the body is temporary; life in the spirit before God is permanent. • Every plan, purchase, and pursuit is lived between two fixed moments: our creation from dust and our reunion with God. Priority #1 – Prepare for the Return of the Spirit • Hebrews 9:27 reminds: “it is appointed for men to die once, and after that to face judgment.” • Salvation in Christ is the only foundation that endures (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). • Daily repentance and faith place us in right standing when the spirit returns. Priority #2 – Hold Possessions Lightly, Steward Faithfully • 1 Timothy 6:7: “For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it.” • View money, talents, time as tools on loan. • Ask: “How can this resource serve God’s purposes today?” not “How long can I keep it?” Priority #3 – Invest in the Eternal • Matthew 6:19-20: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” • Eternal investments include: – Sharing the gospel – Discipling others (2 Timothy 2:2) – Acts of mercy and justice (Matthew 25:40) – Supporting kingdom work financially • These investments follow us when dust returns to dust. Priority #4 – Cultivate Constant Fellowship with the Giver • Colossians 3:1-2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” • Spiritual disciplines—prayer, Scripture intake, worship—keep the heart oriented toward the God who will receive our spirit. • Relationships grow today that will continue into eternity with fellow believers. Priority #5 – Live Ready for Accountability • 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ…” • Accountability motivates integrity in hidden places: – Honest business practices – Pure thought life (Psalm 139:23-24) – Faithful service even when unnoticed Daily Decisions Shaped by Ecclesiastes 12:7 • Schedule: Build margin for worship and service, not just productivity. • Finances: Budget generosity first, lifestyle second. • Career: Pursue callings that honor God, bless others, and allow gospel influence. • Relationships: Prioritize reconciliation and discipleship over personal comfort. • Trials: Face suffering with hope, knowing the spirit’s destination is secure (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Encouragement for the Journey • Psalm 90:12: “So teach us to number our days, that we may present a heart of wisdom.” • James 4:14: “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” • Because our spirit will soon be home, every moment on earth can echo eternity—bringing meaning, joy, and urgency to all we do today. |
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