Episodes
Monday Aug 01, 2016
Ecclesiastes 8:1-17 Chasing the Wind: The Work of God
Monday Aug 01, 2016
Monday Aug 01, 2016
Chasing the Wind: The Work of God
Ecclesiastes 8:1-17
Obey the King (v. 1-10a)
· Solomon advises us to remember how the world works
· Those in positions of authority are to be obeyed (Rom. 13:1-5*; see also 1 Pet. 2:13-15)
o Though not when they are in opposition to God’s explicit commands (See Ex. 1:17-21; Josh. 2:1-7; 1 Sam. 14:45; 1 Kings 18; Dan. 3; Dan. 6; Acts 4:19-21; 5:29; Rev. 13:15)
· However, Solomon advises that when they are in the wrong, we must be tactful and diplomatic (v. 3-4)
· And he reminds us that even kings’ powers are limited and fleeting (v. 6-9)
o And ultimately God will end the reign of tyrannical and self-righteous rulers (v. 10a)
On Injustice (v. 10b-15)
· Solomon reflects on the seeming injustice of this world
· When justice is delayed it can contribute to more sinfulness
· Likewise, the righteous can sometimes suffer
o While the wicked prosper
· However, one needs a long-term view (v. 13)
o Justice will be executed by God
o Thus it is best to live in reverence to Him
· This view can lead to an enjoyment of one’s life now (v. 15)
o Even in the midst of injustice
The Work of God (v. 15-17)
· Solomon concludes that despite one’s desire to gain wisdom and understanding, humans are limited
· We cannot fathom all that God is doing
o We cannot know the future
· Thus we need to trust Him
So What?
· When we experience injustice, it should act as a reminder that the world is not as it should be
· Do we trust that God is at work, even when we cannot see Him?
Meditation Verse: Ecclesiastes 8:17
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