May 19, 2021 - Ecclesiastes 7:11-22

All our young lives are spent in the classroom. It appears that the gathering and garnering of knowledge is something that this culture has placed as an essential element for youth! From grade school to high school countless hours are poured into the accumulation of knowledge and application of those nuggets of information.

Solomon would agree with this summation for the need of knowledge which provides us with the needed skills necessary for the lifestyle we live. Solomon’s greater emphasis becomes the need for man to consider the work of God in their lives. As God is in control of the activities not only of our individual life but also the whole world, it is wise for us to consider His appointments and plan for life.

When we accept that God is control and He has appointed certain events to transpire, we will have a more mature perspective to walk through the changing circumstances of the day. We may not understand why a righteous person dies early in their life or why a cruel, vile person lives to old age but our faith in God’s sovereignty will allow us to continue and trust that God judges all righteously.

Solomon applies the understanding of the work of God by instructing the reader to be moderate in their lifestyle and fear God throughout their busy lives. His statement in verses 20-22 reveals man’s weakness and propensity to do wrong. The Apostle Paul in the book of Romans agrees with Solomon’s wisdom by stating “For there is no difference; for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3: 22b-23).

Apply the wisdom of Solomon from this passage today. Be wise and demonstrate that wisdom by showing compassion and patience toward those who offend or speak badly to you and trust God’s sovereignty!