Ecclesiastes 7:1-29
Friday, 9 April 2021
…But the excellence of knowledge is that wisdom gives life to those who have it. -Ecclesiastes 7:12
The Book of Ecclesiastes was written by Solomon- one the greatest kings of Israel, blessed with divine wisdom and knowledge (2 Chronicles 1:7-12), as he reflected upon his life during his later years after having failed to walk in the ways of godly wisdom. Ecclesiastes is a collection of thoughts from Solomon’s personal experience that shows the futility of a life without God.
In Ecclesiastes 7:12, Solomon compares wisdom with wealth and emphasizes that wisdom is more valuable that riches because it protects our life. While Solomon talks of knowledge and understanding that safeguards and preserves our life in this world, there is a deeper meaning that we need to consider. In worldly intelligence one can live a healthy and secure life on earth but what happens when we leave this earth? Unless we come to the knowledge of the saving grace of Jesus Christ, we will be lost for all eternity! The main purpose of godly wisdom is that we come to recognize and accept that without our Creator God, we perish. Godly wisdom leads us to life eternal and a fruitful walk with the Lord. “For whoever finds me (Wisdom) finds life and obtains favor and grace from the Lord.” (Proverbs 8:35)
Like Job, people inquire, “But where can wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding?” (Job 28:12). Solomon gives us the answer in Proverbs 2:6 “For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” If any of you lack wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5)
For the person who truly seeks and receives divine wisdom, it will result in an inner transformation. The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]. (Proverbs 1:7) When we receive godly wisdom, we realize our inability and unworthiness before the holiness and righteousness of God. This revelation brings a change from ignorance to reverential fear and worship of this awesome God, who gave His all to reinstate us and rescue our life. The Holy Scripture gives us the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).
How can we grow in godly wisdom? –By spending quality time in the Lord’s presence, meditating on His Word and following the counsel of the Holy Spirit. God’s Word instructs us in our daily walk with Him: Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105) Daily meditation on God’s word will strengthen us in moments of sorrow, guide us in periods of uncertainty and builds us up in times of trials and testing. Further, the Holy Spirit - The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and strength, The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD (Isaiah 11:2) will guide us in all wisdom. No matter how great the trail we may be facing, God’s Word and His Spirit will provide us divine wisdom and assurance to overcome difficult times.
When we grow in godly wisdom, our very lives will bear evidence of it. “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17) Divine wisdom transforms us into considerate and gentle people, humble before God and compassionate and loving towards others. How blessed are the brethren who walk in divine wisdom!
Let us desire to grow in godly wisdom that leads in a closer walk with the Lord and loving fellowship with our brethren.
Prayer:
“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
[Ephesians 1:17]
Song: ‘We choose the fear of the Lord’