Is There Still a Reason to Keep Going?

Discovering God’s Purpose When You Feel Done

Introduction

If you’re asking this question, you’re not alone.

There comes a point when the weight of life makes you wonder if it’s even worth continuing — when the pain, pressure, and silence of unanswered prayers press so hard, you start to slip into survival mode. You're still breathing… but you’re not sure why.

This study is for those moments.

In Ecclesiastes 12, Solomon — one of the richest, wisest, and most experienced people in history — reflects on life as someone who has been there. He knows what it’s like to feel burned out, confused, and aged by sorrow. And through poetic yet piercing words, he shares what really matters before the end comes.

This isn’t a study filled with religious clichés or empty inspiration. It’s a lifeline — a reminder that God hasn’t forgotten you, even if life feels like it has.

Together, we’ll walk slowly through Solomon’s final thoughts…
...and maybe, just maybe, find one more reason to keep going.

Verse-by-Verse Study of Ecclesiastes 12

Ecclesiastes 12:1

KJV 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; CEV ¹ Keep your Creator in mind while you are young! In years to come, you will be burdened down with troubles and say, “I don't enjoy life anymore.”

KJV: Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not...

Note: Solomon urges us to reconnect with God before life gets harder. "The evil days" aren’t necessarily sinful — they are difficult, painful seasons that drain joy.

Reflection: It’s easy to forget God when life is good. But it’s essential to return to Him before life turns heavy — or even while it already is.

“Even now, though I’m no longer young, I remind myself daily to remember God in the middle of brokenness — not just in youth, but in pain.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:2

KJV ² While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: CEV ² Someday the light of the sun and the moon and the stars will all seem dim to you. Rain clouds will remain over your head.

KJV: While the sun, or the light... be not darkened...

Note: A poetic description of joy and clarity fading — things that once brought meaning no longer shine.

Reflection: Sometimes life feels overcast — emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Yet God remains constant, even if the “light” dims.

Ecclesiastes 12:3

KJV ³ In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened, CEV ³ Your body will grow feeble, your teeth will decay, and your eyesight fail.

KJV: In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble... and the strong men shall bow...

Note: A vivid metaphor of aging:

Keepers = hands trembling
Strong men = legs weakening
Grinders = teeth falling out
Windows = fading eyesight

Reflection:

“This one is real. There are moments when I feel completely bent over — not just physically, but emotionally. Life, parenting, and personal losses weigh heavily. But I know God sees me bowed down — and still walks with me.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:4

KJV ⁴ And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low; CEV ⁴ The noisy grinding of grain and the voices of singers will be shut out by your deaf ears, but even the song of a bird will keep you awake.

KJV: And the doors shall be shut in the streets... and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low...

Note: A decline in hearing and joy. Waking early, yet tired. Sounds fade. Music loses meaning.

Reflection: As we age or suffer, the things we once enjoyed may feel hollow. But the presence of God can renew joy from the inside.

Ecclesiastes 12:5

KJV ⁵ Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets: CEV ⁵ You will be afraid to climb up a hill or walk down a road. Your hair will turn as white as almond blossoms. You will feel lifeless and drag along like an old grasshopper. We each go to our eternal home, and the streets here are filled with those who mourn.

KJV: Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high... and the grasshopper shall be a burden...

Note:

Fear of heights = fear of risks or injury
Almond tree = white hair
Grasshopper = even small tasks feel heavy
Desire fails = emotional or physical drive weakens
“Man goeth to his long home” = death
“Mourners go about” = funeral

Reflection:

“There are days when even simple things — dishes, kids, legal matters — feel like too much. I understand what it means when desire fades. But I also know that God doesn’t measure us by our productivity — just by our trust.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:6

KJV ⁶ Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. CEV ⁶ The silver cord snaps, the golden bowl breaks; the water pitcher is smashed, and the pulley at the well is shattered.

KJV: Or ever the silver cord be loosed...

Note: Death is coming. Life is delicate — like a silver cord or a golden bowl — beautiful but breakable. The pitcher and wheel represent vital organs shutting down.

Reflection: Life is short, but meaningful when lived for God. He is worth remembering now — not later.

Ecclesiastes 12:7

KJV ⁷ Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. CEV ⁷ So our bodies return to the earth, and the life-giving breath returns to God.

KJV: Then shall the dust return to the earth... and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

Note: A reminder of Genesis — we are dust. Death isn’t the end — we return to the One who made us.

Reflection:

“When life breaks down, I hold on to this — my body might feel weak or worn, but my spirit is God’s. And He hasn’t given up on me.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:8

KJV ⁸ Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity. CEV ⁸ Nothing makes sense. I have seen it all — nothing makes sense.

KJV: Vanity of vanities... all is vanity.

Note: Without God, even wisdom, wealth, and work are empty. This is Solomon’s core message: a life without God is meaningless.

Reflection:

“I’ve chased things that didn’t last. But I’ve learned that only God fills the heart in a way that stays full, even in dark times.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:9

KJV ⁹ And 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. CEV ⁹ I was a wise teacher with much understanding, and I collected a number of proverbs that I had carefully studied.

KJV: And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge...

Note: Despite his own weariness and disillusionment, Solomon still used his wisdom to bless others. He reflected deeply and organised his teachings to pass them on.

Reflection:

“Even when life feels like it’s falling apart, I want to be someone who keeps teaching truth — to my kids, to my friends, to my brother. Like Solomon, I believe our pain can still have purpose.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:10

KJV ¹⁰ The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. CEV ¹⁰ Then I tried to explain these things in the best and most accurate way.

KJV: The preacher sought to find out acceptable words... words of truth.

Note: Solomon didn’t just speak carelessly — he searched for words that were both true and helpful.

Reflection: We all need someone who will speak truth to us in love — especially when life is hard. This study is part of that — sharing truth wrapped in understanding.

Ecclesiastes 12:11

KJV ¹¹ The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. CEV ¹¹ Words of wisdom are like the stick a farmer uses to make animals move. These sayings come from a shepherd, and they are like nails that fasten things together.

KJV: The words of the wise are as goads... and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies...

Note:

Goads: Sharp sticks used to steer cattle — wisdom can be uncomfortable but guides us in the right direction.
Nails: Fastened truth — things we can hang our lives on.
“One shepherd”: A reference to God, the true source of all wisdom.

Reflection:

“Some verses feel like a poke — uncomfortable. Others feel like an anchor — secure. I’ve felt both. But they’re both from the same Shepherd who’s trying to lead me home.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:12

KJV ¹² 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. CEV ¹² My child, I warn you to stay away from any teachings except these. There is no end to books, and too much study will wear you out.

KJV: Of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.

Note: Endless searching, learning, or thinking can leave us exhausted — especially when it’s done apart from God. Knowledge is not the goal — connection with the Creator is.

Reflection: You don’t need all the answers right now. You just need to come back to God. Start with what you know: He loves you and He’s not done with you.

Ecclesiastes 12:13

KJV ¹³ Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. CEV ¹³ Everything you were taught can be put into a few words: Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about.

KJV: Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

Note: This is the bottom line of life. Respect God. Follow Him. This is what makes us truly human — not wealth, not success, not comfort — but living in step with our Creator.

Reflection:

“When everything else fails — parenting, court battles, relationships, health — this truth still holds: I am still called to walk humbly with God. That’s where meaning is found. That’s what makes me a person of purpose.” - Jonathan

Ecclesiastes 12:14

KJV ¹⁴ For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. CEV ¹⁴ God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.

KJV: For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Note: Nothing is missed. No pain is wasted. God sees everything — even the things nobody else sees. And He is just.

Reflection:

“It’s a relief to know that even when the system fails, God never does. He will set things right. He will honour the quiet faithfulness we’ve shown — even when no one else sees it.” - Jonathan

Pause and Reflect

Before you rush on, take a few quiet minutes...

Breathe.

Re-read the verse or reflection that stood out most to you.

What part of Ecclesiastes 12

KJV 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; ² While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: ³ In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened, ⁴ And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low; ⁵ Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets: ⁶ Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. ⁷ Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. ⁸ Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity. ⁹ And 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. ¹⁰ The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. ¹¹ The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. ¹² 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. ¹³ Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. ¹⁴ For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. CEV ¹ Keep your Creator in mind while you are young! In years to come, you will be burdened down with troubles and say, “I don't enjoy life anymore.” ² Someday the light of the sun and the moon and the stars will all seem dim to you. Rain clouds will remain over your head. ³ Your body will grow feeble, your teeth will decay, and your eyesight fail. ⁴ The noisy grinding of grain and the voices of singers will be shut out by your deaf ears, but even the song of a bird will keep you awake. ⁵ You will be afraid to climb up a hill or walk down a road. Your hair will turn as white as almond blossoms. You will feel lifeless and drag along like an old grasshopper. We each go to our eternal home, and the streets here are filled with those who mourn. ⁶ The silver cord snaps, the golden bowl breaks; the water pitcher is smashed, and the pulley at the well is shattered. ⁷ So our bodies return to the earth, and the life-giving breath returns to God. ⁸ Nothing makes sense. I have seen it all — nothing makes sense. ⁹ I was a wise teacher with much understanding, and I collected a number of proverbs that I had carefully studied. ¹⁰ Then I tried to explain these things in the best and most accurate way. ¹¹ Words of wisdom are like the stick a farmer uses to make animals move. These sayings come from a shepherd, and they are like nails that fasten things together. ¹² My child, I warn you to stay away from any teachings except these. There is no end to books, and too much study will wear you out. ¹³ Everything you were taught can be put into a few words: Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. ¹⁴ God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
spoke to your soul today?

Where in your life do you feel bent, weary, or on the verge of giving up?

Is there one step you can take to remember your Creator again — even if it’s just a whispered prayer?

Closing Prayer

Father,
I’m tired. I’m worn. I’ve questioned everything — even You. But if You’re still here, then I want to reach for You again.

Help me stand. Even if I’m trembling. Even if I feel like giving up.
I want to remember You — not just in the good times, but now, in the broken ones.

Please hold me. Please guide me.

Amen.

Is There Still a Reason to Keep Going?

Introduction

Verse-by-Verse Study of Ecclesiastes 12

Ecclesiastes 12:2 KJV 2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: CEV 2 Someday the light of the sun and the moon and the stars will all seem dim to you. Rain clouds will remain over your head.

Ecclesiastes 12:3 KJV 3 In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened, CEV 3 Your body will grow feeble, your teeth will decay, and your eyesight fail.

Ecclesiastes 12:6 KJV 6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. CEV 6 The silver cord snaps, the golden bowl breaks; the water pitcher is smashed, and the pulley at the well is shattered.

Ecclesiastes 12:7 KJV 7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. CEV 7 So our bodies return to the earth, and the life-giving breath returns to God.

Ecclesiastes 12:8 KJV 8 Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity. CEV 8 Nothing makes sense. I have seen it all — nothing makes sense.

Ecclesiastes 12:9 KJV 9 And 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. CEV 9 I was a wise teacher with much understanding, and I collected a number of proverbs that I had carefully studied.

Ecclesiastes 12:10 KJV 10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. CEV 10 Then I tried to explain these things in the best and most accurate way.

Ecclesiastes 12:12 KJV 12 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. CEV 12 My child, I warn you to stay away from any teachings except these. There is no end to books, and too much study will wear you out.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 KJV 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. CEV 13 Everything you were taught can be put into a few words: Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about.

Ecclesiastes 12:14 KJV 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. CEV 14 God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.

Pause and Reflect

Closing Prayer

Ecclesiastes 12:2

KJV ² While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: CEV ² Someday the light of the sun and the moon and the stars will all seem dim to you. Rain clouds will remain over your head.

Ecclesiastes 12:6

KJV ⁶ Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. CEV ⁶ The silver cord snaps, the golden bowl breaks; the water pitcher is smashed, and the pulley at the well is shattered.

Ecclesiastes 12:7

KJV ⁷ Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. CEV ⁷ So our bodies return to the earth, and the life-giving breath returns to God.

Ecclesiastes 12:8

KJV ⁸ Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity. CEV ⁸ Nothing makes sense. I have seen it all — nothing makes sense.

Ecclesiastes 12:10

KJV ¹⁰ The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. CEV ¹⁰ Then I tried to explain these things in the best and most accurate way.

Ecclesiastes 12:12

KJV ¹² 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. CEV ¹² My child, I warn you to stay away from any teachings except these. There is no end to books, and too much study will wear you out.

Ecclesiastes 12:13

KJV ¹³ Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. CEV ¹³ Everything you were taught can be put into a few words: Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about.

Ecclesiastes 12:14

KJV ¹⁴ For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. CEV ¹⁴ God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.