How can we discern when to "scatter stones" or "gather stones" in life? Setting the Scene • Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “There is a season for everything, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” • Verse 5 continues: “a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing”. • Solomon’s imagery comes straight from everyday life in Israel: stones were either removed from a field to make it fruitful or piled up to build something lasting. What “Scatter Stones” Signifies • Clearing a field for planting—removing obstacles so good seed can take root (Isaiah 5:2). • Ruining an enemy’s land—an act of judgment or warfare (2 Kings 3:19,25). • Breaking down idolatrous altars—tearing away whatever offends God (2 Kings 23:12-15). What “Gather Stones” Signifies • Collecting materials to build an altar, home, or wall (Genesis 31:45-46; 1 Kings 5:17-18). • Raising memorial stones that testify to God’s faithfulness (Joshua 4:5-7). • Preparing the ground so crops can flourish after the stones are piled aside (Isaiah 62:10). Principles for Discernment • Align with clear commands of Scripture—God never calls us to scatter or gather in ways that violate His Word (Psalm 119:105). • Examine motives: Are we acting for God’s glory or personal comfort? (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Seek wisdom through the Spirit and the Word (John 14:26; James 1:5). • Observe fruit: scattering should lead to greater holiness; gathering should lead to constructive growth (Matthew 7:17-18). • Wait for God’s timing—rushing can uproot good plants or build on shaky ground (Galatians 6:9; Proverbs 3:5-6). • Confirm through godly counsel; many advisers bring safety (Proverbs 11:14). Practical Examples Today Scatter Stones • Confessing and abandoning habitual sin, dismantling patterns that choke spiritual life (Hebrews 12:1). • Ending partnerships or media habits that compromise purity (2 Corinthians 6:14-17). • Clearing overloaded schedules so worship, family, and rest can thrive (Exodus 20:8-10). Gather Stones • Establishing daily time in Scripture and prayer, building an altar of fellowship with God (Psalm 1:2-3). • Investing in Christ-centered friendships and church service, stacking stones that strengthen the body (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Saving resources to support missions or care for loved ones, laying foundations for future ministry (Proverbs 21:20). Walking in Step with Christ Jesus Himself scattered stones when He cleansed the temple (John 2:13-17) and gathered them when He formed a people from every nation (Ephesians 2:19-22). By keeping our eyes on Him, we learn when to tear down what hinders and when to build what endures. |
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