S) "9 In addition to being a wise man, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge; and he pondered, searched out and arranged many proverbs. 10 The Preacher sought to find delightful words and to write words of truth correctly."
Ecclesiastes 12:9-10 (NASB)
O) Here we see that the Preacher was not content to simply be a wise man, but he sought to teach the knowledge he had gained to other people. There is a key to saying he was looking for delightful words, and also to write the truth of them correctly. In the two verses that follow this, he notes the potential of wise words, but then he also pairs that with a warning about the writing of many books. As important as it is to find a way to present truth correctly, but also to use words that make it accessible and alluring, this is very difficult. A person could spend a literal lifetime, writing books, trying to find new ways to say the same thing, so that people will understand it better. Ultimately, though, the sharing of knowledge for the sake of increasing wisdom, is still a delightful and correct endeavor in its own right.
A) For me, this is more about a way of life, than it is about a calling. I don't think I'll ever write a book, per se, but there are plenty of things I want to teach my children (or anyone else who will listen). My disposition is that of a teacher, and so I want to take what God has given me (the wisdom and knowledge I have, especially about Him), and I want to find delightful words to make the teaching of it more appealing. At the same time, I can never compromise truth, and I must hold fast to Scripture and God's character. Really, this happens with time and relationship. It's hard to teach deep truths in simple ways, because deep truths are complex. I cannot rush things, if I want the words to be both delightful and true.
A) For me, this is more about a way of life, than it is about a calling. I don't think I'll ever write a book, per se, but there are plenty of things I want to teach my children (or anyone else who will listen). My disposition is that of a teacher, and so I want to take what God has given me (the wisdom and knowledge I have, especially about Him), and I want to find delightful words to make the teaching of it more appealing. At the same time, I can never compromise truth, and I must hold fast to Scripture and God's character. Really, this happens with time and relationship. It's hard to teach deep truths in simple ways, because deep truths are complex. I cannot rush things, if I want the words to be both delightful and true.
P) Father, give me the words to speak, Lord. The truth I receive from You is difficult to convey sometimes, but I want to teach it, Father God. You have delightful words, and I know you have the truth. Help me to speak it correctly. Please give me wisdom and patience, that I would not be consumed trying to find the perfect way to say something. Help me to still be a man of action, willing to invest in relationship, and allowing words to come as they will as You give them. Thank You for the grace of the gospel, in all its delight and truth. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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