Rejoice, but Remember | Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:8

One key theme of Ecclesiastes is that life’s problems and pain should not stop us from enjoying life’s blessings. As followers of Jesus, we can be "sorrowful, yet always rejoicing." But Ecclesiastes teaches that the only way to have sustainable, true joy is by living within God’s boundaries. God’s Word is not a prison; it is a fence of protection against the devastating consequences of sin. King Solomon tells young people to enjoy the physical prime of life with all of the excitement and opportunities in front of them, but he warns them to remember that someday God will evaluate all of their deeds. He also tells us to remember God in the days of our youth rather than waiting until the pain and problems of old age seize us. One way the church can accomplish the task of remembering God is through ministries that include intergenerational fellowship. The old are reminded by the young to rejoice in life, and the young are reminded by the old to remember God.

Take-Home Message: Enjoy life, but remember God.

Rejoice! (11:7-10)

• Rejoice despite dark days (7-8)
• Rejoice in your youth (9-10)

...But Remember (12:1-8)

The Importance of the Intergenerational Church

• The old are reminded by the young to rejoice in life
• The young are reminded by the old to remember God