EGW WritingsEcclesiastes 12
Ellen G. White
Read Ecclesiastes 12 in the BibleEcclesiastes 12:1-14
Conflict and Courage
A Late Awakening, July 9
CC 196.1
Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun. Ecclesiastes 2:11.CC 196.2
By his own bitter experience, Solomon learned the emptiness of a life that seeks in earthly things its highest good. He erected altars to heathen gods, only to learn how vain is their promise of rest to the spirit. Gloomy and soul-harassing thoughts troubled him night and day. For him there was no longer any joy of life or peace of mind, and the future was dark with despair.CC 196.3
Yet the Lord forsook him not. By messages of reproof and by severe judgments, He sought to arouse the king to a realization of the sinfulness of his course.... At last the Lord, through a prophet, delivered to Solomon the startling message: ... “I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant. Notwithstanding in thy days I will not do it for David thy father’s sake: but I will rend it out of the hand of thy son.”CC 196.4
Awakened as from a dream by this sentence of judgment pronounced against him and his house, Solomon with quickened conscience began to see his folly in its true light. Chastened in spirit, with mind and body enfeebled, he turned wearied and thirsting from earth’s broken cisterns, to drink once more at the fountain of life.... He could never hope to escape the blasting results of sin; he could never free his mind from all remembrance of the self-indulgent course he had been pursuing; but he would endeavor earnestly to dissuade others from following after folly....CC 196.5
The true penitent does not put his past sins from his remembrance. He does not, as soon as he has obtained peace, grow unconcerned in regard to the mistakes he has made. He thinks of those who have been led into evil by his course, and tries in every possible way to lead them back into the true path. The clearer the light that he has entered into, the stronger is his desire to set the feet of others in the right way.22Prophets and Kings, 76-78.Prophets and Kings
Chapter 5—Solomon’s Repentance
PK 79.1
By the spirit of inspiration the king recorded for after generations the history of his wasted years with their lessons of warning. And thus, although the seed of his sowing was reaped by his people in harvests of evil, his life-work was not wholly lost. With meekness and lowliness Solomon in his later years “taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs.” He “sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.” “The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. And further, by these, my son, be admonished.” Ecclesiastes 12:9-12.PK 80.1
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter,” he wrote: “Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Verses 13, 14.PK 82.1
“Then shall the dust return to the earthAs it was:
And the spirit shall return unto God
Who gave it.” Ecclesiastes 12:1-7.
The Retirement Years
Helpful Bible Texts for Seniors
RY 188.1
For God will judge us for everything we do, including every hidden thing, good or bad.—Ecclesiastes 12:1-7, 13, 14, The Living Bible.Ecclesiastes 12:6
Darkness Before Dawn
Man Fixes His Own Destiny
DD 17.2
Nowhere in the Sacred Scriptures is found the statement that the righteous go to their reward or the wicked to their punishment at death. The patriarchs and prophets have left no such assurance. Christ and His apostles have given no hint of it. The Bible clearly teaches that the dead do not go immediately to heaven. They are represented as sleeping until the resurrection. 1 Thessalonians 4:14; Job 14:10-12. In the very day when the silver cord is loosed and the golden bowl broken (Ecclesiastes 12:6), man’s thoughts perish. They that go down to the grave are in silence. They know no more of anything that is done under the sun. Job 14:21. Blessed rest for the weary righteous! Time, be it long or short, is but a moment to them. They sleep; they are awakened by the trump of God to a glorious immortality. “For the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible.... So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.” 1 Corinthians 15:52-54. As they are called forth from their deep slumber they begin to think just where they ceased. The last sensation was the pang of death; the last thought, that they were falling beneath the power of the grave. When they arise from the tomb, their first glad thought will be echoed in the triumphal shout: “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” Verse 55.The Great Controversy
Chapter 33—The First Great Deception
GC 549.3
Nowhere in the Sacred Scriptures is found the statement that the righteous go to their reward or the wicked to their punishment at death. The patriarchs and prophets have left no such assurance. Christ and His apostles have given no hint of it. The Bible clearly teaches that the dead do not go immediately to heaven. They are represented as sleeping until the resurrection. 1 Thessalonians 4:14; Job 14:10-12. In the very day when the silver cord is loosed and the golden bowl broken (Ecclesiastes 12:6), man’s thoughts perish. They that go down to the grave are in silence. They know no more of anything that is done under the sun. Job 14:21. Blessed rest for the weary righteous! Time, be it long or short, is but a moment to them. They sleep; they are awakened by the trump of God to a glorious immortality. “For the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible.... So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.” 1 Corinthians 15:52-54. As they are called forth from their deep slumber they begin to think just where they ceased. The last sensation was the pang of death; the last thought, that they were falling beneath the power of the grave. When they arise from the tomb, their first glad thought will be echoed in the triumphal shout: “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” Verse 55.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 33—The First Great Deception
GC88 550.1
Nowhere in the Sacred Scriptures is found the statement that the righteous go to their reward or the wicked to their punishment at death. The patriarchs and prophets have left no such assurance. Christ and his apostles have given no hint of it. The Bible clearly teaches that the dead do not go immediately to Heaven. They are represented as sleeping until the resurrection. [1 Thessalonians 4:14; Job 14:10-12.] In the very day when the silver cord is loosed and the golden bowl broken, [Ecclesiastes 12:6.] man’s thoughts perish. They that go down to the grave are in silence. They know no more of anything that is done under the sun. [Job 14:21.] Blessed rest for the weary righteous! Time, be it long or short, is but a moment to them. They sleep, they are awakened by the trump of God to a glorious immortality. “For the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible.... So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.” [1 Corinthians 15:52-55.] As they are called forth from their deep slumber, they begin to think just where they ceased. The last sensation was the pang of death, the last thought that they were falling beneath the power of the grave. When they arise from the tomb, their first glad thought will be echoed in the triumphal shout, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” [1 Corinthians 15:52-55.]Ecclesiastes 12:9-10
From Splendor to Shadow
Solomon Acknowledges His Sin
SS 42.1
By inspiration the king recorded the history of his wasted years with their lessons of warning. And thus his lifework was not wholly lost. With lowliness Solomon in his later years “taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arranging proverbs with great care.” He “sought to find pleasing words, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.” Ecclesiastes 12:9, 10, RSV.Ecclesiastes 12:9-14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 40, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 40, 1903, par. 6
“Moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs. The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:9-14.]Ecclesiastes 12:11
To Be Like Jesus
Small Talents Have Value and Can Increase, March 19
BLJ 87.1
The words of the wise are like goads, and the words of scholars are like well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd. Ecclesiastes 12:11, NKJVEcclesiastes 12:12
Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
Mr No. 725—Compelling Power in Preaching
9MR 207.1
I was shown that Brethren [J.N.] Loughborough, [Moses] Hull, and [J.N.] Andrews have been greedy for too many books. They have read and studied more than they can retain, and I was shown that much study is a weariness of the flesh (Ecclesiastes 12:12). They have not given the mind time to rest, and the mind affects the body. Weary the mind and the body suffers. It is injured. They have taken upon the mind more than they can use to any advantage, and then they injure the work, injure the effect of the truth that they would advocate, by crowding into one discourse so much and making so many points that minds cannot always appreciate or follow them. More success would attend their labors if they riveted one or two points in the minds of the hearers and make these points of vital importance, press them home and urge upon them the danger of rejecting the light upon those points. Let the minds of the hearers distinctly understand the bearing of every point and then urge to a decision.My Life Today
Temperate in Study, May 20
ML 144.1
And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. Ecclesiastes 12:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 7, 1863
1LtMs, Ms 7, 1863, par. 1
I was shown that Brethren Loughborough, Hull, and Andrews have been greedy for too many books. They have read and studied more than they can retain, and I was shown that much study is a weariness of the flesh. Ecclesiastes 12:12. They have not given the mind time to rest, and the mind affects the body. Weary the mind and the body suffers. It is injured. They have taken upon the mind more than they can use to any advantage, and then they injure the work, injure the effect of the truth that they would advocate, by crowding into one discourse so much, and making so many points, that minds cannot always appreciate or follow them. More success would attend their labors if they riveted one or two points in the minds of the hearers and make these points of vital importance, press them home and urge upon them the danger of rejecting the light upon those points. Let the minds of the hearers distinctly understand the bearing of every point and then urge to a decision.Ecclesiastes 12:13
Christian Education
Chapter 10—The Science of Salvation the First of Sciences
CE 84.1
In the Bible the whole duty of man is defined. Solomon says, “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13.] The will of God is revealed in his written word, and this is the essential knowledge. Human wisdom, familiarity with the languages of different nations, is a help in the missionary work. An understanding of the customs of the people, of the location and time of events, is practical knowledge; for it aids in making the figures of the Bible clear, in bringing out the force of Christ’s lessons; but it is not positively necessary to know these things. The way-faring man may find the pathway cast up for the ransomed to walk in, and there will be no excuse found for any one who perishes through misapprehension of the Scriptures.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 56, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 56, 1893, par. 8
The conditions upon which a man may become a member of the kingdom of God are, “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13.] When the lawyer came to Christ, asking, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? How readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou has answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 90, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 90, 1901, par. 5
To know God and Jesus Christ is eternal life. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter, Fear God and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13.] Anchor the soul upon the sure and eternal promises. Then the heart is softened and prepared to do God’s will. The whole being, body, soul, and spirit, is consecrated to God, ready for any service that He may appoint. You are linked up with your Saviour to share His grace, rejoice in His love, and appreciate His imperishable excellence. You are partakers of the divine nature, sons and daughters of God.The Three Angels’ Messages
“Fear God and give glory to Him”
3AM 55.1
By the first angel, men are called upon to “fear God, and give glory to Him” and to worship Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In order to do this, they must obey His law. Says the wise man: “Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13. Without obedience to His commandments no worship can be pleasing to God. “This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments.” “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” 1 John 5:3; Proverbs 28:9.—The Great Controversy, 436 (1888, 1911)God’s Amazing Grace
God’s Law Is Its Standard, May 13
AG 141.1
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. Ecclesiastes 12:13.Lift Him Up
The Standard of Character in the Judgment, November 24
LHU 342.3
By the first angel, men are called upon to “fear God, and give glory to him” and to worship Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In order to do this, they must obey His law. Says the wise man: “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Without obedience to His commandments no worship can be pleasing to God. “This is the love of God, that we keep his commandments.” “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination” (The Great Controversy, 435, 436).My Life Today
Patient Continuance in Well-doing, June 12
ML 167.1
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. Ecclesiastes 12:13.The Great Controversy
Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable
GC 436.1
By the first angel, men are called upon to “fear God, and give glory to Him” and to worship Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In order to do this, they must obey His law. Says the wise man: “Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13. Without obedience to His commandments no worship can be pleasing to God. “This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments.” “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” 1 John 5:3; Proverbs 28:9.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable
GC88 436.1
By the first angel, men are called upon to “fear God, and give glory to him,” and to worship him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In order to do this, they must obey his law. Says the wise man, “Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13.] Without obedience to his commandments, no worship can be pleasing to God. “This is the love of God, that we keep his commandments.” “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” [1 John 5:3; Proverbs 28:9.]The Upward Look
Revelations of the Judgment, July 8
UL 203.1
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. Ecclesiastes 12:13.The Watchman
October 10, 1905
SW October 10, 1905, par. 1
The first angel of Revelation 14 calls upon men to “fear God and give glory to him,” and to worship him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In order to do this, they must obey his law. The wise man says, “Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13. Without obedience to his commandments, no worship can be pleasing to God; for “this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments.” “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” 1 John 5:3; Proverbs 28:9.Homeward Bound
The Plan of Salvation Made Plain, January 7
HB 22.1
Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.—Ecclesiastes 12:13.Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1575—A Description of Christ’s Return and the Final Judgment; An Appeal for Faithful Stewardship and Witnessing
21MR 348.4
Present the truth that is needed in every church as the means to an end, and that end the judgment, with its eternal decisions and rewards. God will render to every man according to his work. “Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of His saints, to execute judgment upon all.” And Solomon, when making his appeal and declaration as a preacher of righteousness, presented the prospect of a judgment to come. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter,” he said, “Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 75, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 75, 1895, par. 4
The day is near when every hidden thing will be revealed. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.] “Judgment will I also lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet; and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place.” [Isaiah 28:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 141, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 141, 1898, par. 5
“This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] “Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches. But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise loving kindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth; for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.” [Jeremiah 9:23, 24.] “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of men. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 131, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 131, 1900, par. 12
Present the truth that is needed in every church as the means to an end, and that end the judgment, with its eternal decisions and rewards. God will render to every man according to his work. “Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these things, saying, Behold the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all.” [Jude 14, 15.] And Solomon, when making his appeal and declaration as a preacher of righteousness, presented the prospect of a judgment to come. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter,” he said, “Fear God and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 140, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, par. 66
The day is near when every hidden thing will be revealed. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.] “Judgment will I also lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet; and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place.” [Isaiah 28:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 77, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 77, 1906, par. 11
Christ is our Deliverer. He exclaims, “I will ransom them from the power of the grave. I will redeem them from death. O death, I will be thy plagues! O grave, I will be thy destruction!” [Hosea 13:14.] Thrice in rapid succession He exclaimed, “I will raise them up at the last day.” [John 6:40, 44, 54.] Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of that day, saying, “Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousand of His saints, to execute judgment upon all.” [Jude 14, 15.] And Solomon, when in the capacity of a preacher he tried to present the strongest motive to holy obedience—the motive that was above that was above all estimate in view of the judgment to come—said, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 45, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, par. 18
The Lord sums up the whole duty of man in the words: “Fear God, and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.] “But I say unto you, That every idle word that man shall speak, he shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:36, 37.]The Great Controversy
Chapter 28—Facing Life’s Record
GC 481.2
There is a record also of the sins of men. “For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” Says the Saviour: “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Ecclesiastes 12:14; Matthew 12:36, 37. The secret purposes and motives appear in the unerring register; for God “will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts.” 1 Corinthians 4:5. “Behold, it is written before Me, ... your iniquities, and the iniquities of your fathers together, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 65:6, 7.GC 482.2
The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of men will be tested in the judgment. Says the wise man: “Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment.” Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14. The apostle James admonishes his brethren: “So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.” James 2:12.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 28—The Investigative Judgment
GC88 481.2
There is a record also of the sins of men. “For God shall bring every work into Judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:14.] “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of Judgment.” Said the Saviour, “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 13:36, 37.] The secret purposes and motives appears in the unerring register; for God “will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts.” [1 Corinthians 4:5.] “Behold, it is written before me, ... your iniquities, and the iniquities of your fathers together, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 65:6, 7.]GC88 482.1
The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of men will be tested in the Judgment. Says the wise man: “Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into Judgment.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.] The apostle James admonishes his brethren, “So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.” [James 2:12.]This Day With God
The Judgment Is Coming, October 14
TDG 296.1
For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Ecclesiastes 12:14.TDG 296.3
Present the truth that is needed in every church as the means to an end, and that end the judgment, with its eternal decisions and rewards. God will render to every man according to his work. “Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all” (Jude 14, 15). And Solomon, when making his appeal and declaration as a preacher of righteousness, presented the prospect of a judgment to come. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter,” he said: “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14).From Here to Forever
The Standard of Judgment
HF 297.1
The law of God is the standard in the judgment. “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment.” “So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.” Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14; James 2:12.Christ in His Sanctuary
God’s Law the Standard
CIHS 175.3
The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of men will be tested in the judgment. Says the wise man: “Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment.” Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14. The apostle James admonishes his brethren: “So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.” James 2:12.Homeward Bound
The Standard of Judgment, October 17
HB 318.3
The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of all will be tested in the judgment. Says the wise man: “Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.) The apostle James admonishes his fellow Christians: “So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.” (James 2:12.)Ecclesiastes 12:14
Letters to Young Lovers
Have I Made The Right Choice?
LYL 43.4
Belle, it is not now too late for wrongs to be righted. It is not now too late to make your calling and your election sure. You may now begin to work upon the plan of addition. Add to your faith virtue, and knowledge, and temperance, and patience, and every Christian grace. Everything else will perish in the great day of conflagration, but the gold of holy character is enduring. It knows no decay. It will stand the test of the fires of the last day. My dear child, I wish you to remember that “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:14.To Be Like Jesus
God’s Word the Standard of Judgment, April 19
BLJ 119.1
God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether it is good or whether it is evil. Ecclesiastes 12:14, NKJV.A New Life (Revival and Beyond)
Our Unique Responsibility
NL 31.1
Says the psalmist, “The law of the Lord is perfect” (Psalm 19:7). How wonderful in its simplicity, its comprehensiveness and perfection, is the law of Jehovah! It is so brief that we can easily commit every precept to memory, and yet so far-reaching as to express the whole will of God, and to take cognizance, not only of the outward actions, but of the thoughts and intents, the desires and emotions, of the heart. Human laws cannot do this. They can deal with the outward actions only. A man may be a transgressor, and yet conceal his misdeeds from human eyes; he may be a criminal—a thief, a murderer, or an adulterer—but so long as he is not discovered, the law cannot condemn him as guilty. The law of God takes note of the jealousy, envy, hatred, malignity, revenge, lust, and ambition that surge through the soul, but have not found expression in outward action, because the opportunity, not the will, has been wanting. And these sinful emotions will be brought into the account in the day when “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).From Heaven With Love
Chapter 42—Christ Foretells a Great Uprooting
HLv 265.4
He answered, “Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.” The customs and traditions so highly valued by the rabbis could not endure the testing of God. Every human invention that has been substituted for the commandments of God will be found worthless in that day when “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:14.From Here to Forever
Secret Motives
HF 296.4
There is a record also of the sins of men. “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Secret motives appear in the register, for God “will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts.” Ecclesiastes 12:14; Matthew 12:36, 37; 1 Corinthians 4:5. Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin. Heaven-sent warnings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments, the influence exerted for good or for evil with its far-reaching results, all are chronicled by the recording angel.True Revival
Our Unique Responsibility
TR 39.1
Says the psalmist, “The law of the Lord is perfect” (Psalm 19:7). How wonderful in its simplicity, its comprehensiveness and perfection, is the law of Jehovah! It is so brief that we can easily commit every precept to memory, and yet so far-reaching as to express the whole will of God, and to take cognizance, not only of the outward actions, but of the thoughts and intents, the desires and emotions, of the heart. Human laws cannot do this. They can deal with the outward actions only. A man may be a transgressor, and yet conceal his misdeeds from human eyes; he may be a criminal—a thief, a murderer, or an adulterer—but so long as he is not discovered, the law cannot condemn him as guilty. The law of God takes note of the jealousy, envy, hatred, malignity, revenge, lust, and ambition that surge through the soul, but have not found expression in outward action, because the opportunity, not the will, has been wanting. And these sinful emotions will be brought into the account in the day when “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).Christ in His Sanctuary
Whose Cases Considered?
CIHS 175.1
There is a record also of the sins of men. “For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” Says the Saviour: “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Ecclesiastes 12:14; Matthew 12:36, 37. The secret purposes and motives appear in the unerring register; for God “will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts.” 1 Corinthians 4:5. “Behold, it is written before Me,...your iniquities, and the iniquities of your fathers together, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 65:6, 7.From the Heart
Be Honest With God, October 16
FH 301.1
For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:14.Lift Him Up
The Record Books in Heaven, November 7
LHU 325.1
For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Ecclesiastes 12:14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 51, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 51, 1889, par. 6
Laura, it is not now too late for wrongs to be righted. It is not now too late to make your calling and your election sure. You may now begin to work upon the plan of addition. Add to your faith virtue, and knowledge, and temperance, and patience, and every Christian grace. Everything else will perish in the great day of conflagration, but the gold of holy character is enduring. It knows no decay. It will stand the test of the fires of the last day. My dear child, I wish you to remember that “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 70, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 70, 1894, par. 17
When a crisis comes in the life of any soul, and another attempts to give advice, that advice and counsel will have only the weight of influence for good that the example and spirit of the adviser has accumulated for him. It is the consistent life, the revelation of a sincere, Christlike interest for the soul in peril, that will make counsel effectual to persuade and win into safe paths. Those who are quick to <censure> others, who speak words that cut and bruise the already wounded soul, are doing Satan’s work, and are laborers with the prince of darkness. But the True Witness says, “I know thy works,” “every work shall be brought into judgment with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” [Revelation 3:14, 15; Ecclesiastes 12:14.] They will have to give an account for their neglect of those whom they might have blessed, strengthened, upheld, and healed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 18, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 18, 1895, par. 20
The Lord has given simple, plain warnings to those who flatter themselves that He is not exact to punish the wrongdoers who live in daily transgression of His law. But His Word is sure and steadfast. “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:14.] “He hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness.” [Acts 17:31.] “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that every one may receive the things done in his body according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” [2 Corinthians 5:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 15, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 15, 1895, par. 15
This work will be met in that great day when every work shall be brought “into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:14.] Jesus says, “Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” [Revelation 22:12.] The Lord of heaven is not correctly represented by many of those who claim to be representatives of Him. They are transgressors of His commandments. But He declares, “Them that honor me will I honor.” [1 Samuel 2:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 160a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 8
Let us never think that God is not particular in regard to the conduct of His children toward Himself and His law, “God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:14.] “He hath appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness, that every man shall receive according to the things done in the body, whether it be good or evil.” [See Acts 17:31; 2 Corinthians 5:10.] God is particular in regard to the words we speak in the family circle, and the spirit we manifest toward believers and unbelievers. We ask, Are you doers of the Word in your home life, in your business life, man with man, neighbor with neighbor? His promises to the believer are conditional. “Whatsoever we ask we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things which are pleasing in his sight.” [1 John 3:22.]Maranatha
Every Work Will Be Brought Into Judgment, November 28
Mar 340.1
God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Ecclesiastes 12:14.Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 57—Hatred and Revenge
2MCP 526.2
A Sinful Emotion—The law of God takes note of the jealousy, envy, hatred, malignity, revenge, lust, and ambition that surge through the soul, but have not found expression in outward action because the opportunity, not the will, has been wanting. And these sinful emotions will be brought into the account in the day when “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).—ST, Apr 15, 1886. (Selected Messages 1:217.)Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 27—The Character of the Law of God
1SM 217.1
Says the psalmist, “The law of the Lord is perfect” (Psalm 19:7). How wonderful in its simplicity, its comprehensiveness and perfection, is the law of Jehovah! It is so brief that we can easily commit every precept to memory, and yet so far-reaching as to express the whole will of God, and to take cognizance, not only of the outward actions, but of the thoughts and intents, the desires and emotions, of the heart. Human laws cannot do this. They can deal with the outward actions only. A man may be a transgressor, and yet conceal his misdeeds from human eyes; he may be a criminal—a thief, a murderer, or an adulterer—but so long as he is not discovered, the law cannot condemn him as guilty. The law of God takes note of the jealousy, envy, hatred, malignity, revenge, lust, and ambition that surge through the soul, but have not found expression in outward action, because the opportunity, not the will, has been wanting. And these sinful emotions will be brought into the account in the day when “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 6—Counsels to Walter and Laura
TSB 62.2
Changing Before It Is Too Late—Laura, it is not now too late for wrongs to be righted. It is not now too late to make your calling and your election sure. You may now begin to work upon the plan of addition. Add to your faith virtue, and knowledge, and temperance, and patience, and every Christian grace. Everything else will perish in the great day of conflagration, but the gold of holy character is enduring. It knows no decay. It will stand the test of the fires of the last day. My dear child, I wish you to remember that “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” [Ecclesiastes 12:14].That I May Know Him
The Day of Final Settlement, December 19
TMK 359.2
The Scriptures declare, “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14). There is not a shadow of doubt about this matter.... Sin may be concealed, denied, covered up from father, mother, wife, children, and associates. No one but the guilty actors may cherish the least suspicion of the wrong, but it is laid bare before the intelligences of heaven. The darkness of the darkest night, the secrecy of all deceptive arts, is not sufficient to veil one thought from the knowledge of the Eternal....The Desire of Ages
Chapter 42—Tradition
DA 398.2
He answered, “Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.” The customs and traditions so highly valued by the rabbis were of this world, not from heaven. However great their authority with the people, they could not endure the testing of God. Every human invention that has been substituted for the commandments of God will be found worthless in that day when “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:14.The Faith I Live By
Judged From the Records, July 23
FLB 210.1
For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Ecclesiastes 12:14.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Ecclesiastes 12:1
Child Guidance
Chapter 75—Leading Little Children to Christ
CG 491.1
I was referred to the many precious promises on record for those who seek their Saviour early. Ecclesiastes 12:1: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Proverbs 8:17: “I love them that love me, and those that seek me early shall find me.” The great Shepherd of Israel is still saying, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Teach your children that youth is the best time to seek the Lord.21Testimonies For The Church 1:396, 397.The Signs of the Times
April 10, 1884
ST April 10, 1884, par. 12
There are many precious promises on record for those who seek their Saviour early. Ecclesiastes 12:1: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Proverbs 8:17: “I love them that love me, and those that seek me early shall find me.” The great Shepherd of Israel is still saying, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of Heaven.” Teach your children that youth is the best time to seek the Lord. Then the burdens of life are not heavy upon them, and their young minds are not harassed with care, and while so free they should devote the best of their strength to God.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Conversion of Children
1TT 147.1
I was referred to the many precious promises on record for those who seek their Saviour early. “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Ecclesiastes 12:1. “I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me.” Proverbs 8:17. The Great Shepherd of Israel is still saying: “Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” Luke 18:16. Teach your children that youth is the best time to seek the Lord. Then the burdens of life are not heavy upon them, and their young minds are not harassed with care, and while so free they should devote the best of their strength to God.From Splendor to Shadow
Counsel to Youths
Remember now thy Creator in the days of
thy youth,
While the evil days come not,
Nor the years draw nigh,
When thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.
Ecclesiastes 12:1
Testimony for the Church — No. 10
Dangers of the Young
T10 7.1
I was referred to the many precious promises on record for those who seek their Saviour early. Ecclesiastes 12:1. “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Proverbs 13 [8]:17. “I love them that love me, and those that seek me early shall find me.” The great Shepherd of Israel is still saying, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of Heaven.” Teach your children that youth is the best time to seek the Lord. Their young minds are not harassed with care, and the burdens of life are not heavy upon them, and while so free they should devote the best of their strength to God.Radiant Religion
The “Gifts” of the World Grow Worse, August 29
RRe 243.1
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. Ecclesiastes 12:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 102, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 102, 1898, par. 16
Those who build upon Christ Jesus will be safe, but those who build according to the wisdom of worldly-wise men will find their wisdom foolishness. The great question for us to settle is, How are we building? What characters are we forming in this our probationary time? The Cornerstone of right character is Jesus Christ. His Word, if practiced, is sufficient to develop harmonious characters in all who believe and fashion their lives according to Christ’s character. Set Christ ever before you. “Remember now thy Creator.” [Ecclesiastes 12:1.] Recognize God as the first and last and the best in everything. Lay all the schemes and methods of your life before the One who died for you that He might bring you life and immortality. Let the cords of Christ’s love bind you to Him for time and for eternity. The life that is given to God will become most valuable. God says, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold: even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.]My Life Today
Remember Your Creator in Your Youth, June 1
ML 156.1
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. Ecclesiastes 12:1.Our High Calling
Necessity of Self-cultivation, August 1
OHC 219.1
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. Ecclesiastes 12:1.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 74—Dangers of the Young
1T 396.2
I was referred to the many precious promises on record for those who seek their Saviour early. Ecclesiastes 12:1: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Proverbs 8:17: “I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me.” The Great Shepherd of Israel is still saying: “Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” Teach your children that youth is the best time to seek the Lord. Then the burdens of life are not heavy upon them, and their young minds are not harassed with care, and while so free they should devote the best of their strength to God.The Faith I Live By
One Lease of Life, June 10
FLB 167.1
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. Ecclesiastes 12:1.The Upward Look
Seek the Lord, November 27
UL 345.1
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth. Ecclesiastes 12:1.Ye Shall Receive Power
With the Younger Members of God’s Family, May 13
YRP 142.1
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. Ecclesiastes 12:1.Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b
Chapter 10—Dangers of the Young
4bSG 139.1
I was referred to the many precious promises on record for those who seek their Saviour early. Ecclesiastes 12:1. “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Proverbs 8:17. “I love them that love me, and those that seek me early shall find me.” The great Shepherd of Israel is still saying, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of Heaven.” Teach your children that youth is the best time to seek the Lord. Their young minds are not harassed with care, and the burdens of life are not heavy upon them, and while so free they should devote the best of their strength to God.The Signs of the Times
February 26, 1880
ST February 26, 1880, par. 7
Many precious promises like the following are recorded for those who seek the Lord early: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. Ecclesiastes 12:1. “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.” Proverbs 8:17. The good Shepherd still entreats: “Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Teach the children to seek the Lord while young and thus devote the best of their strength to his service.