by Roby Ellis
[Scripture Reading: Ecclesiastes 12:1-8]
Introduction
A. From this metaphorical passage we are made to consider the fact that we will all grow old and die.
B. For most people, youth is nothing but vanity, but it needn’t be.
I. Why is it a wise choice to remember one’s Creator early in life?
A. It is wise because it is easier to do things right the first time (1 Samuel 3:19-20; Acts 22:19-20; Ephesians 5:15-16).
B. It is wise because youth doesn’t last forever (Ecclesiastes 11:10).
C. It is wise because death can take us unaware (Ecclesiastes 9:12; James 4:13-14).
D. It is wise because every second counts in this battle (Ephesians 5:15-16).
E. One should not stop growing (2 Peter 3:18).
II. What about the rest of us?
A. We must try to forget about what we cannot change (Philippians 3:13-14; 1 Corinthians 15:8-9).
B. We should do our best with what we have (Matthew 20:1-16; 1 Corinthians 15:58).
C. We should encourage young Christians all we can (1 Timothy 4:12-13).
Conclusion
A. Early years can be put to good use (Luke 1:80).
B. Every season of this life is made by God for a specific purpose, and everyone is “beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11).