ECCLESIASTES 8
- The chapter starts with the question, “Who is like the wise person, and who knows the interpretation of a matter?” Wisdom is a subject of many of the Old Testament proverbs and books. A point is made that Solomon asked the Lord for wisdom. What is wisdom, in light of God? Godly wisdom starts with the fear and understanding of God, which leads to a life determined to honor Him. When our lives are based on glorifying God, our decisions will be based on what is most Godly. When we base our lives on the pursuit of happiness or wealth, that becomes the value which drives our thought processes and decisions.
- What does wisdom mean to me? What determines how I make choices and live out my life?
“The revelation of your words brings light and gives understanding to the inexperienced.” – Psalm 119:130
- Verse 2 reveals how we should act as believers. It says we should obey the king, “because we made an oath before God.” We don’t necessarily obey earthly authorities because of their positions, but we should honor them because of our relationship with God. When we make an oath before God, it is real and powerful. When we think of how we love our spouses, we should think of it in view of the promises we made in front of God. When we think of our children, we may not have taken an oath, but many of us stood before our churches and promised to raise them in fear and admonition of the Lord.
- Have I made any promises to God that I am not fulfilling? Do I honor my spouse, children, and coworkers as I should?
“When a man makes a vow to the Lord or swears an oath to put himself under an obligation, he must not break his word; he must do whatever he has promised.” – Numbers 30:2
- Verse 12 says that sinners will do wrong and prolong their lives, but the teacher knows that it will go well for those who live reverently before God. Revering God means that we see him for his real worth. We understand that he is holy and powerful. We know we are not, so we make the Holy Spirit empowered choices to honor God with our thoughts, actions and words. This kind of life leads to a devoted walk, trusting God to provide, and leading others to him.
- What are some practical ways we can revere God?
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. 15 But as the one who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:14-16
Life Application: Wisdom, reverence and holiness are all hallmarks of believers. Look at your life and reflect on which of these areas you need the Holy Spirit to help you with.
For Prayer: Pray for those around the world who are not experiencing the freedom we have here in the US. Pray that God would send many to rescue those who are still in chains.