“A TIME TO GAIN, AND A TIME TO LOSE”

INTRODUCTION

A. Ecclesiastes 3:1

1. “The words of the Preacher” (1:1), Solomon, inform us that a time is available for every event that transpires in the lives of men.

2. For the last several weeks, we’ve been studying this subject.

B. Ecclesiastes 3:6a-b Our study resumes today with “a time to be gain, and a time to lose.”

I. “A TIME TO GAIN”

A. “Gain,” as it appears in the NKJV, is probably the poorest understanding of the Hebrew word behind it.

1. Other translations render the word as follows:

a. “Get” (KJV).

b. “Seek” (ASV, RSV).

c. “Search (NASB, NASU, NIV).

d. “Find” (TLB).

2. The Hebrew literally means, “to search out; to strive after” (Strong’s).

B. God

1. Acts 17:24-28 God is not hard to find, but He does want us to search for Him.

2. Matthew 6:33; 7:7-11 If we sincerely search for God, He will let us find Him, and provide for us, as well.

3. Luke 13:24 The path on which we may please God is one so narrow it requires striving to find.

4. Colossians 3:1 We are required to seek those things which surround our Lord.

5. Hebrews 11:6 God is pleased by those who “diligently seek Him” and will reward them.

C. Erring Brethren

1. Luke 15:8-10 Those of our brethren who are wayward ought to be sought after, for they are more valuable than any gold.

2. Matthew 18:15 We must seek to “gain” those brethren who wrong us.

D. Scriptures

1. John 5:39 The scriptures should be searched for eternal life.

2. Acts 17:11 The scriptures should be searched to verify what we have heard.

3. 1st Peter 1:10-11 The scriptures were searched by those who would not live to witness their fulfillment, so we ought to enjoy that privilege.

II. “A TIME TO LOSE”

A. 1st Corinthians 3:15 Sadly, loss will be endured when those we have converted fall away,.

B. Philippians 3:7-8; Hebrews 11:27; Luke 5:11, 28; 14:26-33; Matthew 16:25 We should be quite willing to lose those things which are not necessary in order to please God.

CONCLUSION

A. Have you gained God through the scriptures?

B. If not, you may gain Him when you lose things that now prevent you from serving Him.

Grace Be With You, Bryan Matthew Dockens

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