a) Read the Bible Dictionary for “Ecclesiastes,” (pg. 659), and complete the following statements:

• The book of Ecclesiastes consists of reflections on some of the deepest problems of life, as they present themselves to the thoughtful observer.

• The author describes himself as "son of David, King in Jerusalem". 

• Ecclesiastes is written from the point of view of "under the sun" or a worldly point of view.

• Ecclesiastes should not be construed as " observations by the Preacher about how things appear to men on the earth".

(b) Read Ecclesiastes 1–2 and list five ways the author sought happiness but couldn’t find it. After each item on your list, write the reference of the verse where you found it.

-Being in a position of power, he was king (1: 12) 

-Traveled and seen things (1:13) 

- sought lots of learning (1:17-18)

- sought fun and excitement (2: 1-2) 

- owning lots of nice things  ( 2: 5-8) 

(c) Read Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 and compare it with the principles that are taught in Mosiah 4:27; Doctrine and Covenants 10:4; 111:11; Luke 10:38–42. Write a paragraph describing why the timing and order of our activities are so important. Note some examples of how major events of life when done at the wrong time or out of order could seriously hurt an individual’s eternal progress. What do you think the Lord wants you to accomplish during this “time and season” of your life?

     For everything there is a time and a season. Winter does not come in the spring and apples cannot be made to ripen before they are ready. The same applies to things in life. Going swimming in the snow is not the time, it would be better to wait until a nice sunny day. It is better to get married after you have taken the time to know the other person. Getting married before then would be the wrong reason. 

   Sexual relationships also have a time and a season when they are right. Entering these relationships before their time have serious consequences. Sex is reserved by God for the true expression of love and commitment between a husband and wife. When people have sex without the commitment and love of a marriage leaves a void and emptiness.