Ecclesiastes 8:12–13 (ESV) — 12 Though a sinner does evil a hundred times and prolongs his life, yet I know that it will be well with those who fear God, because they fear before him. 13 But it will not be well with the wicked, neither will he prolong his days like a shadow, because he does not fear before God.
NOTE: Every now and then, Solomon peeks out from under the sun and understands the importance of fearing God, whether the person be wise or not wise. Of course, the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Life seems unfair and is unfair. But there is a final tally as well to life that comes after the life under the sun. And the life above the sun will be prolonged for him who fears God, but justice will be dealt to the wicked. We don't deserve life, we are all sinners. We do have an opportunity to turn to God in life and experience a better future (and a more purposeful present life). Solomon's depiction of life assumes a life lived without any fear of God. It is depressing and sad and unfair and evil, where any joy experienced is the only reward worth living for. But those of us who have placed our faith in Jesus know that life can have meaning, purpose, and a hope for the future. It is not arbitrary, random, and only for the narcissistic. We need to share the truth we have discovered and always be prepared to present a defense of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
PONDER:
- Is my life a witness of something that is different and looks different from the world?
- Do I live under the sun or in fear of God?
PRAYER: Father, it is hard to read Solomon's wisdom of life lived without any fear of you. Even though life is painful, just as much so for the believer, it does have purpose and meaning, and most importantly, it has hope, an assured hope. Thank you for the wisdom to know that I must live for you.
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