Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-8:17

 

“Obey the king since you vowed to God that you would. Don’t try to avoid doing your duty, and don’t stand with those who plot evil, for the king can do whatever he wants.  His command is backed by great power. No one can resist or question it. Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right, for there is a time and a way for everything, even when a person is in trouble.” - Ecclesiastes 8:2-6 ^{The Living Translation}

 

            All authority is established by God, therefore, those who are in power on this earth have either been set in place by the Lord or he has allowed them to reign over their people for a season and a specific purpose. Therefore, Solomon has taken the time to address this issue. Why does one obey the king? Back in biblical times the Jewish people would make a vow before God to obey and serve the king that was in power.  If the one who would be king were godly, they had all the power and authority of Almighty Jehovah God behind them. If they were ungodly, perhaps they were allowed to be in power to cause the people to repent to God. The ungodly king may not have the power of God behind them, but Satan’s power, though less formidable, can still drive the king to do evil things to God’s people.

            God’s plan was to be the Jewish people’s sole ruler, setting them apart from the other nations, however, the people complained to the Prophet Samuel. What was their complaint? They desired to have a king just like the other nations. (1 Samuel 8:4-22) God told Samuel to give them what they desired, and that started a cavalcade of both godly and ungodly kings going forward. That is not what God desired for the children of God, but because of their free will they selfishly pushed their demand until them received what they wanted. 

            Like with God, they had a choice to follow the king’s directives or not. With earthly kings, if you said or did something to displease them, you would be punished. With God you might be punished, but in both cases, it would be the consequences of a hand poorly played. Obey and serve the soon coming King and live to please him, for if you do you will have no reason for regret. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries 

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-8:17

 

“How wonderful to be wise, to analyze and interpret things. Wisdom lights up a person’s face, softening its harshness.” - Ecclesiastes 8:1 ^{The Living Translation}

 

            Solomon gained Godly wisdom simply by asking for it. However, he asked for it to the exclusion of all else. His request so pleased the Lord that he gave him what he asked for and what he didn’t ask for as well. How do we receive Godly wisdom? We simply ask with a humble heart, showing the proper reverence to Almighty God.

            “Wisdom is the ability to see life from God’s perspective and then to know the best course of action to take.” ^[1]Most would absolutely agree that having godly wisdom would be a very valuable asset to have, but not all know how to acquire it. Proverbs 9:10 says the following - “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.”  We are to respect and honor the Lord for this is what is due him. Should the creature not hold its creator in high esteem? Wisdom comes from knowing and trusting God. Frankly, God has never given anyone any reason not to trust him. What he has said in scripture has no falseness in it. The problem we have as his children is waiting for his promise(s) to come to fruition. That is not a flaw of God’s, but rather a totally understandable flaw in man. We are but dust, so God has infinite patience with us all.

            Wisdom leads to a higher level of understanding and understanding will normally lead to acceptance. It is normal to question and even to doubt, for we are finite creatures who generally lack a sufficient amount of trust and patience. It’s as if we all hail from the state of Missouri (known as the “Show-Me” state). If there’s one person you can absolutely and always trust, it’s Almighty God, Creator of the Universe, and man’s first breath. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

^[1] From the scripture notes - The Life Application Study Bible.

Word for the Day

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclessiastes 7:15-29

 

”‘Behold, I have discovered this,’says the Preacher, ‘while adding one thing to another to find an explanation, which I am still seeking but have not found. I have found one man among a thousand [who pleases God], but I have not found [such] a woman among all these [a thousand in my harem]. Behold, I have found only this [as a reason]: God made man upright and uncorrupted, but they [both men and women] have sought out many devices [for evil].’”- Ecclesiastes 7:27-29 ^{The Amplified Bible}

 

According to my sources, Solomon is pointing out that Adam was created morally good (Genesis 1:31). Yet because Eve fell into temptation by eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, both Adam and Eve died as God said they would. Since they didn’t die physically, God was obviously speaking of their spiritual death. It is interesting to me that when God asked them who had told them they were naked, Adam pointed at Eve and blamed the sin on her. Then Eve pointed at the evil serpent and blamed him for tempting her. This is a good object lesson. You cannot blame anyone else for your own actions. Eve was to blame for her actions and Adam was to blame for his actions, no one else. Because God created Eve from Adam’s rib, they were then of one flesh so they were equally to blame. Romans 3:23 states that “all have continuously sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.” 

Once evil comes upon you you’re liable to do anything. Your godly inclination is gone. Eve did what God specifically commanded both she and Adam NOT to do. Temptation comes in the form of something beautiful. Let’s face it, you wouldn’t be attracted to it if it weren’t. They had everything a person could want, but wanted more. That is the free will God allows in us. Satan knew the difference between physical death and spiritual death, but Adam and Eve did not. 
The Lord tests us, but doesn’t tempt us, to test our faith as a means of allowing it to grow. 

Adam and Eve’s failure opened the door for sin to rule over mankind, but even then there were still godly men. It is a lifelong struggle to live by God’s standard, but in the end it is more than worthwhile. We must become discerning and make our lifelong goal one of obedience to the Lord. We are to be different...not like anyone else we know. We are to stand for righteousness, even as we are righteous and seek to avoid evil at all costs. Be a man / woman who pleases God with their life. It should be our mission in life as believers in Christ. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name and for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon's Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-29

"...I discovered that [of all irrational sins none has been so destructive in beguiling one away from God as immoral women for] more bitter than death is the woman whose heart is [composed of] snares & nets, and whose hands are chains. Whoever pleases God will escape from her, but the sinner will be taken captive by her [evil]."- Ecclesiastes 7:26 The Amplified Bible

        It has always been my understanding that men (generally speaking) are attracted to woman visually; by the way they look and/or carry themselves. Saying that leads me to analyze the above verse in the following way...if we are not focused on Christ and on living a life pleasing to God we WILL trip up and end up weakening, if not completely destroying our testimony. The devil always looks for the weak spot in our armor, so to speak, and plunges the knife deep into the soft, fleshy part not covered by said armor. If the believer is married, their ungodly actions will destroy any trust their spouse has in them. Trust is a nearly impossible thing to regain. Without it a person's integrity is compromised.

        Solomon, perhaps having fallen for the guile of an immoral woman at one time, has warned young men in various places in Proverbs about the sinfulness of allowing your heart to be captured by a woman with ungodly motives. Once a man gives himself to someone he has no business being with his whole world become skewed. Nothing makes sense any more. Everything that is wrong is never right, but once you enter into the darkness, nothing looks wrong to you at all. You can't 'dabble' in the darkness and not expect to be tainted by it.

        To balance out his negative depiction of the immoral [evil] woman, he spends much time extolling the virtues of the godly woman in his other writings (Proverbs & Song of Solomon). Her heart is after God. She is morally upright, exhibiting excellence in all areas of her life. Solomon never confuses his readers with the immoral while omitting the moral. He always counterbalances one with the other. In most cases the best teacher is experience. In this particular case, Solomon uses his experiences to help his readers avoid having the same distasteful, ungodly ones so they might side step the snare that this woman wishes to trap them in. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

Rich Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

http://www.minidevos.blogspot.com

Cell: (848) 240-1293

A Brief Thanksgiving Message from Bread of Life Ministries

           Once a year we stop to thank God for all the blessings he has given us over the past year. Sadly, for far too many people all Thanksgiving has become is a day off from work, watching football, stuffing yourself with good food and napping on the couch. Many don't even acknowledge God at all. On the flip side, some acknowledge God's involvement in their lives. For some it is a time of reflection. Are they all they can be? Do they show their family how much they truly mean to them? Are they as close to God as they could be? Introspection is what each and every person, Christian or not, should do regularly ... not just once a year.                                                                                                                                           

          Let's face it, shouldn't we be thankful every day of the year. Just the fact that we are still above ground and breathing should be reason enough to be thankful to God. Regardless of your circumstances, take the time each day to thank God for your life, your family and your circumstances, which may not be ideal. Remember, God causes and allows all things and there is a reason for everything that we go thru. Don't you realize that no matter how bad things may look to you, it could always be worse ... trust me, it could ALWAYS be worse. So be thankful to God for life and love and peace and hope, because no matter what, with God there is always reason for hope. God hasn't forgotten any of us and will make things right when the time is right. So trust God and thank him for all you have and all you are.

          As always, walk with the King and be a blessing and have a happy, healthy holiday with a grateful heart.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Richard Keller - Bread of Life Ministries

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-29

 

“I have tested all this with wisdom. I said, ‘I will be wise [independently of God],’ but true wisdom was far from me. Whatever has been is far off, deeply remote and exceedingly mysterious. Who can discover it [for it is beyond the grasp of man]? I turned around and directed my heart to know, to investigate and to seek [skillful and godly] wisdom and the reason for things, and to know that wickedness is folly and that foolishness is madness [leading to stupidity and recklessness].” - Ecclesiastes 7:23-25

 

Though Solomon received God-given wisdom, he still could not understand all that exists. He searched everywhere to comprehend the reason of things, but found no answers. He needed, just like we need, to come to the realization that some things are simply unknowable. God is omniscient, which means ”knowing all things”; therefore, God knows all that can be known.

There is much evil in the world today and it is on full display. The wicked, satan inspired people do not see their folly or that the evil they are doing is foolishness in God’s eyes. Their reckless behavior will be the death of them.

A wise man examines the events and circumstances of life and ask God questions, such as, “What does this mean?” or “What would you have me learn from this?” This is one way to acquire wisdom. One can also gain wisdom by seeking out other wise men. It is also true that Scripture itself can provide many insights and will add perspective and cause you to ask questions that will prompt additional thought on a given subject. A human’s capacity to understand God is like person wrestling an alligator bare handed. It’s simply not possible. Ask the deeper questions of God and then listen for and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you to the appropriate response. Always pray for discernment from on high so as not to be deceived by the devil who is constantly trying to trip up God’s children. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name and for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries 

 

Resources: The Reformation Study Bible, The Quest Study Bible, The MacArthur Study Bible & The Wiersbe Study Bible.

Word for the Day

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-29

 

“Indeed, there is not a righteous man on earth who always does good and who never sins. Also, do not take seriously everything that is said, so that you will not hear your servant cursing you, for you know that you too have cursed others many times.”- Ecclesiastes 7:20-22 ^{Amplified Bible}

 

At some point in our lives we must deal with the truth that in God’s eyes we are all multiple offenders. Even King David, “the apple of God’s eye” ^[1] & “a man after God’s own heart” ^[2], sinned against God more than a few times. It is never alright to sin, but 1 John has the remedy: “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” 

God knows we’re nowhere near perfect; quite the opposite. “From dust we have come and to dust we shall return.” ^{(Genesis 3:19)} We must realize that our failings come from the original sin committed by Adam & Eve in the Garden of Eden. We inherited a whole lot of baggage because of that first sin. Sin, if not dealt with quickly and properly, will grind you under its heel. That is why Solomon can say no righteous man always does good. We are not perfect and shall never be this side of heaven. Yet because of the gift of salvation purchased for us by Christ on the cross, we have become sinless and righteous in the eyes of God. And so he shall always see us as such. Live to please God and not yourself or others, for if you please God with your life and its associated decisions you will live a fulfilled life; not a perfect life ... not a life void of trials and troubles, but a fulfilled life.

Solomon points out that we shouldn’t eavesdrop on other peoples conversation, for we may hear something we ought not hear. It may be someone speaking out against you. That shouldn’t shock any one of us because there were times when you spoke out regarding someone else behind their back. Scripture is clear that if we have a problem with someone we are to be the ones to go to them and make things right. If you are rebuffed, shake the dust off your sandals and go on your way. ^{(Matthew 18:15-17)} Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

[1] Psalm 17:8 - David prays to God that he will protect him even as he would protect a favored son.

[2] 1 Samuel 13:14 & Acts 13:22 - David, in spite of his sin, remained true to God’s laws and statutes.

Resources: The Reformation Study Bible; Quest Study Bible Notes.

 

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-29

 

“Wisdom strengthens the wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city.”- Ecclesiastes 7:19

 

This is another proverb-like statement by Solomon. What does it mean? Wisdom is greater than armed might. It should be said that God is NOT necessarilu on the side of the ones with the biggest military battalions. The Lord is always on the side of the right. Pharoah brought his entire army to wipe out the Jews and followed them to the edge of the Red Sea. I believe you know the rest of the story. That miracle story tells you God isn’t always on the side of the ones with the biggest battalions. Might is not always right.

Those who are wise have the ability to bring good, positive results in their lives and the lives of others. Wisdom looks at any given situation, seeks God and responds with the information provided by his Holy Spirit. Those without God in their life see themselves as wise thru the assertainment of information they believe to be both valid and true. However, without God’s input it could never be true wisdom that amounts to anything position and lasting. God is not only the epitome of love, but also of wisdom.

Solomon’s wisdom came directly from God because he requested it. His request was pure and selfless. God will honor that type of request every time. So seek God’s wisdom over power or influence, for that will fade over time and are conditional in nature. There are others involved who can take your power and influence away from you so that you are left with nothing. God’s wisdom can also be taken away by the one who gave it, but only if you take a rabbit trail and use your wisdom for neparious deeds. God is on the winning side. Follow him and shun the world for this world will one day be destroyed. God’s people will live with him forever in a place he has prepared for us.

Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

 

Resources: Reformation Study Bible;  MacArthur Study Bible & Believer’s Bible Commentary.

 

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-29

 

“Pay attention to these instructions, for anyone who fears God will avoid both extremes.” - Ecclesiastes 7:18

 

In verse 18 Solomon basically tells us what I’ve been saying in response to vv.15-17. Balance is required for the believer in Christ. We must be wise, but not let our wisdom become a self-proclamation of our mental prowess. Humility is essential in most cases and that is no different here. Strive to be like Christ in every area of our lives. Avoid wicked behavior by purposely steering clear of all questionable endeavors so as to keep from sinning. 

God created us to seek his righteousness and goodness, therefore, we should avoid the extremes of legalism (ex. Pharisees) and immorality (ex. its’ father, Satan). Both extremes do nothing to strengthen your faith and trust in God. All they do is trick you into believing you are something you are not. It is far better for others to notice ones wisdom, then to use every chance you get to show off what you perceive to be godly wisdom. Solomon never foisted his god-given wisdom on anyone with the intention of displaying his self-satifaction. He used his gift of wisdom to instruct and educate the masses regarding the mind of God. 

The father of evil, Satan, is constantly looking to replicate God as a means of counterfeiting the Lord’s perfection with his vile substitute. Those who are close to God are able to discern what’s fake and what’s real. Those whose faith and trust are underdeveloped are continuously in danger of stumbling into unfortunate and complicated situations. The remedy to all this is to seek God in all things and look to form a closer, more intimate relationship with him. Even then there are chances of flopping, but it is less likely due to the protection God provides his children. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: Verse notes from The Life Application Study Bible, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s Practical Counsel

Ecclesiastes 7:15-22

 

“Do not be excessively or willfully wicked and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time?” - Ecclesiastes 7:17 ^{Amplified Bible}

^{It should be clear that God is the one who determines when a persons life will end, but foolish people can bring death on prematurely due to poor decisions they have made in life. Fools think only in the short term. They look for immediate remedies to their circumstances, taking unnecessary risks, making damaging lifestyle choices and wasting their true potential. The Lord never condones any sort of wickedness, for sin cannot abide with him. His standard is always perfection, which is why perfection was necessary to remove our sins.}

^{Our lives are filled with temptations that are designed to trip us up. Our ‘old nature’, while dorment as we walk with God, doesn’t require much to wake up and push us toward evil intentions. Media bombards us continuously with tempting suggestions that are meant to drive us over a cliff. It’s why our focus must be very specifically aimed at our Lord and nowhere else.} 

^{Being willfully wicked comes to believer’s who take a break from their religious regimen to “enjoy” their life. First of all, true believer’s in Christ are NOT religious! We have entered into a personal, intimate relationship with the Creator of the Universe and man’s first breath. As far as I know, the word religion doesn’t even appear in scripture. I have known people personally who have decided “to hang up their faith” temporarily, taking a break from what they consider to be the arduous riggers of their walk. They have fallen for a trick of Satan. Their break will more than likely take them far from God. They have gotten bored with their walk, thinking things need to be exciting all the time. Define ‘exciting’. One such person suddenly saw God as a tyrannical dictator who needed to be stopped. Walking with God can include a multitude of pitfalls, but these are to stretch and strengthen your faith. Saying you’re bored with your walk with God is nothing more than an excuse to take an easier route. There is no easier route, only the one set up for you by God himself. Allow your selfless side to grow so as to avoid wicked tangents in your life. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.}

^{Richard Keller}

^{Bread of Life Ministries}

^{Resources: NIV Quest Study Bible, 2011 Zondervan.; Believer’s Bible Commentary, 2016, William MacDonald.}

 

NOTE TO READERS

 I am having difficulty getting my updated Microsoft 365 software package working, so I will be posting other inspirational items in place of my Walking Thru Ecclesiastes series. Please pray that this problem gets resolved quickly. Thank you.

Rich Keller

Word for the Day

 

Word for the Day

 

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:15-22

 

“Do not be excessively righteous [like those given to self-conceit, and do not be overly wise [pretentious] - why should you bring yourself to ruin?”- Ecclesiastes 7:16 ^{Amplified Bible}

 

            Scripture is clear that because of what took place with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden all men became sinful at their core. We are born with the seed of sin in us. As we grow, we can potentially become conceited, (aka, full of ourselves) and make ourselves believe that we are better than others around us. Our overconfidence causes us to become pompous and self-righteous. While there were some very good men among them, the Pharisees were largely self-righteous, covetous hypocrites; puffed up with an overinflated sense of importance. They were the experts…the keepers, and interpreters of Mosaic Law. To many they were viewed as religious legalists who shackled the Jewish people with hundreds of “religious” laws due to their restrictive interpretations of said law. I believe this is the type of person Solomon is referring to, even though the Pharisees do not yet exist. Their sect came into being during the Maccabean Period, along with two other sects, the Sadducees and the Essenes.

            Thinking of yourself as righteous and wise in your own eyes could mean you never took the time to analyze every inward part of yourself. It’s called being introspective. You ruin yourself by shunning further instruction, insisting within yourself that you need not clutter your mind with other thoughts that may cause you confusion. In reality, one should always be ready to learn new things. Until we take our last breath, we should be willing to learn something new. This provides a wall of defense against becoming prideful and self-righteous. 

            God is not impressed with false piety. Those discerning among us can sense pretentiousness in the air. If you are righteous because of God, then you are righteous because he has made you so thru Christ’s blood and you shall ever be in righteous standing before God. Those who try to fake their own righteousness will always fall short and never be recognized by the Lord as righteous by their own doing. The same with wisdom. A person’s undoing is when they try to show off to the world their wisdom. It is a fool’s errand. Once found out their integrity has been damaged. Sadly, they will always be seen as pompous, self-righteous fools. There is a way back from this, however, it is a long, arduous road that can be very humbling. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & For His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, Zondervan, 2016; NIV Quest Bible Study Notes, Zondervan, 2011.

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:15-22

 

“I have seen everything in this meaningless life, including the death of good young people and the long life of wicked people.” - Ecclesiastes 7:15

            Solomon lived in opulent luxury with his many wives and still he was frustrated and bored with life. That would indicate that wealth and a multitude of possessions do not equal happiness and fulfillment. In his frustration he speaks of what he perceives to be his empty life. In it he has seen every kind of contradiction, giving two examples: “the death of good young people and the long life of wicked people”. He reasons that if a person’s goodness isn’t rewarded in this life, then why be good? This is faulty reasoning, for no one should be good just because of a reward that is offered. We should always do good despite anything to the contrary. Drown out your selfish self in favor of the selflessness that desires to burst forth.

            Some of us are too preoccupied with the wicked and what they seemingly get away with. Psalm 37 responds to this: “Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away.” ⁽¹⁾ The second portion of Proverbs 10:7 says, “the name of the wicked will rot.” Psalm 34:16 says, “…the Lord turns his face against those who do evil; he will erase their memory from the earth.” So those evil minded people who try so hard to manufacture a pristine legacy will have their name and the memory of them and what they have done erased from the earth’s conscientiousness.

            Regarding the burning topic that had frustrated Solomon, it must be accepted that there will always be inequities in this life, and they will remain a mystery. If God wanted us to know all things, he would have given us that capacity. Some things are inexplicable to mortal man. They simply do not make any sense, but they don’t have to make sense, because faith and trust are not based on our understanding. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Copyright 2004; NIV Student Study Bible; NKJV Study Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishing, 2007 and The Believer’s Bible Commentary, William MacDonald, 2016.

(1) The Reformation Study Bible 

Word for the Day

 

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

 

“When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future.” - Ecclesiastes 7:14

            They say that life is what you make of it. Life can be dull and boring or exciting and fulfilling. It’s our choice how we emotionally deal with our own life. If we are bored with life that was our decision to be bored. No one made us bored. We don’t HAVE to be bored. It was our choice. Solomon is telling his readers that we should be happy when experiencing good times. Times that are peaceful, rewarding and significantly fulfilling, are times we should be pleased with our life. We should make it a point of being pleased with our life regardless of our circumstances because bad times do eventually end. 

Good times will not always last forever. Adversity comes to every man. It is a faith builder. How would be ever grow spiritually if the sun was always shining and problems always steered clear of us? That would be irrational thinking; completely illogical. Life ebbs and flows just like a river. There is good and bad found in each day. It is our job to maintain a stable attitude throughout, never allowing the good times to take us too high, or the bad times too low. God wants us to use his word as the stabilizing factor in our lives. This was we can enjoy the good times and not be too surprised by the bad. 

Just a weather can at times be highly erratic, so can our lives. The future is completely unknown to us all. If we could know it, we wouldn’t need faith. We have faith and belief in God; therefore, we trust him to do right by us throughout our lives, even in bad times. Bad times do pass. The rainbow at the end of the storm gives of hope for better days. Don’t be so concerned about what will happen even one hour from now. Lean on the Lord and trust that everything will always work out for your best interest and know that in troublesome times God is already standing on the other side of it waiting for you. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

 

“Accept the way God does things, for who can straighten what he has made crooked?”- Ecclesiastes 7:13

 

            Solomon is telling that God does as he pleases without permission sought from anyone. His purposes are much loftier than our own. He knows everything that can be known. He is the ultimate source of all things that we seek. Wisdom, patience, love, compassion, hope and so much more. So as our faith and trust expand thru the years we are to come to a place where we accept absolutely the way God does things.

            God’s plan for mankind was set in stone at the beginning of time. He allowed and caused everything that has taken place throughout history … both the good and the bad. Since there is no evil in him, it is easy to see that he caused the good and allowed the bad for his own particular reasons. We are allowed to question God, but he doesn’t change his mind. It’s possible for him to alter his plan in response to the prayers of his people, with any consequences falling on the people and not God.

            The phrase “for who can straighten what (God) has made crooked?” could potentially have a few different meanings. I happen to think that whatever God has made crooked needed to be crooked for a specific reason. We are unable to change what God has done. Whether straight or crooked, God knows exactly what he is doing at all times and he is always correct in what he does. A true, dedicated believer in God will accept whatever he does knowing that he always has our very best interests at heart. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries          

Resources: Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Old Testament, copyright 2004; NIV Study Bible Notes, Zondervan. 

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

 

“Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life.”- Ecclesiastes 7:12

 

            How many people do you know who “religiously” purchase Lottery Tickets each and every day … some buy up to $20 worth a day? They believe that if they have a BIG cash payout they will be set for life. In spite of what they may think, they are not using wisdom or even good sense. Interestingly it seems to be the folks who have the least monetarily that play most frequently. While it’s true that money can get you just about anything you heart desires, it cannot save your soul.

            This is essentially what Solomon is telling us here. Money will not solve all your problems, especially not your sin problem. It’s important to implement wisdom prior to receiving a large sum of money, because it’s what you’ll need to use it properly. If not, it will be gone in the blink of an eye. 

It’s true that money will be insurance for you against physical and / or financial losses, but wisdom protects you from moral and spiritual damage. Wisdom helps preserve one’s life, not only their material fortune. Isn’t it interesting that man wants endless riches, yet doesn’t want Christ? I’m certain it may have something to do with a person not seeing any connection between money and God. Man feels he must have money; however, he is probably completely unaware of his need to have sins cleansed. Always remember that while we need money to survive in this life, we don’t have to have wealth, because money cannot buy you life, nor can it buy you eternity. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

 

Disclaimer:  This post is not to say there is anything wrong with having wealth. The main two questions that need to be asked regarding those riches is how you got it and what you plan to do with it. Do you spend it on yourself in a frivolous manner or do you take a large portion to give away to causes that glorify God? rk

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

 

“Wisdom with a gift passed down from father to son is good and a help to those who see the sun.”- Ecclesiastes 7:11 ^{New Life Version}

 

            There is not a standard meaning or understanding of this verse. Many translations use the word inheritance which led me to pick this translation, because it speaks of passing down something from father to son. Wisdom can be passed down as an inheritance to a man’s children. Are they paying attention? Sadly, too many young people have been trained via the entertainment industry and the mainstream media to ignore and / or rebel against what their parents tell them thru the years. They rely on the advice … wisdom? … of their peers or friends. How are they qualified to advise anyone? It is because the child knows their friend, more times than not, will agree with them? That’s not a friend.

People in general do not like opposition. They gravitate to those who agree with them. You don’t learn anything that way. A diversity of thought is healthy, even if you don’t agree them. It is good to listen to your father, for sons do not know as much as they think they know, and the father has been through many things firsthand. Tapping into his wisdom can help you avoid some of the same pitfalls they experienced.

The statement “a help to those who see the sun” could mean the following:  Who sees the sun? … those above ground … those alive and breathing. The dead do not see the sun. Not sure if this is alluding to the fact that the sun is light and those who see the light benefit from wisdom. But anyone who hears wisdom speaking or reads it written can benefit from it if they are paying attention. You can see the light metaphorically due to the use of the word ‘sun’. Not sure about all that. Just some random thoughts. This was a tough one, but I think the simple fact that acquiring wisdom is mentioned tells us it is of paramount importance to all men, especially believers. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

 

“Don’t long for ‘the good old days’. This is not wise.” - Ecclesiastes 7:10

 

            For some reason the past always seems better than what you’re currently going through.  We lose touch with reality at times when things seem so dire, but looking backward is unwise. We see a clear illustration of looking back bringing disaster in the story of Lot as he and his family escaped Sod’om (Genesis 19:1-29). In Luke 9:62 Jesus says, “Anyone who puts his hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.”

            There is nothing behind us that is worthy of our attention. It is finished. History cannot be altered, but it can be repeated. We learn from our mistakes and determine not to do the same thing again. Allowing God to lead us by his Holy Spirit can make that happen. 

            Solomon lets us know in Ecclesiastes 1:9 that “there is nothing new under the sun”. It is only our ability to forget the negative things from our past that make it seem like it was better back then. We deceive ourselves with such thinking. We need to be biblically progressive in our thinking. Meaning we must seek to strengthen our relationship with God by continuously drawing closer to him and thus further from this world of sin which seeks to drag us down. That is how we progress in the spiritual maturation process. Don’t become fixated on the past as if it were perfect. Use it as a springboard to a better future free from the ignorant mistakes that had been made. Wisdom comes from learning our lessons well and applying what we’ve learned to our lives. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries   

Resources: Biblical Theology Study Bible; copyright 2019 by Zondervan; Quest Study Bible Notes; 2011 copyright by Zondervan; MacArthur Study Bible; 2019 copyright by Thomas Nelson.

Word for the Day

 

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

 

“Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool.” - Ecclesiastes 7:9

 

            Solomon offers good advice regarding becoming angry. Unless we can quench the flame of anger, we will be in danger of making a fool of ourselves. Making a fool of yourself when you are with one person is one thing, but what about when you act the fool in front of a crowd of people? No one likes to act out and no one likes to have to apologize for ill behavior towards another person. It’s bad when it is done to a brother in Christ, but it can be much worse when done to an unsaved person because our personal testimony then takes a hit.

            This is what else the Bible says about controlling your anger: “Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.” ^{(Proverbs 29:11)} “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” ^{(Proverbs 15:1)} There are times when you should simply ‘bite your tongue’, a metaphorical way of saying ‘keep your mouth shut’. It can be far better to say nothing than to ignite tempers with an ill-timed statement. I’ve looked pretty foolish at times in my life because I couldn’t keep my mouth shut. Holding back is a sign of wisdom and maturity. It also shows discernment.

            Life can be frustrating, especially the way things are currently going in the country these days. Understanding the way Christ wants us to act and react in any and all situations can keep us from looking foolish. Avoiding arguments at all costs is always the right path to choose. We are being warned here not to fly off the handle for it reveals a weakness in character. Proverbs 25:28 says, “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” Self-control is listed as one of the nine fruits of the Spirit. That’s how important self-control is. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries 

Resources: Expositor’s Bible Commentary; copyright 2004; Reformation Study Bible; Ligonier Publishing; Believer’s Bible Commentary; Copy right 2016.

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14 

 

“Finishing is better than starting. Patience is better than pride.”- Ecclesiastes 7:8

            

            I once knew someone who was enthusiastic about starting new projects, but more times than not abandoned the project prior to completion for a variety of reasons. It is indeed better to finish than to start. I could give a hundred examples of things that had been started, yet never finished. The reasons are plentiful. Maybe it was boredom, maybe discouragement, but whatever the reason, it paints a bad picture of the individual who is not a finisher.

            How many times have we made New Year’s resolutions, only to give up days after you had first begun? It’s a very bad precedent to set which becomes a bad habit. We must learn to start something after praying for direction to minimize choosing something that may be too difficult. If God’s in it you will succeed, perhaps not right away, but patience is the key to finishing strong. 

            Having pride in one’s abilities is fine; however, we should never allow our pride to become an ugly thing … a millstone around our neck, weighing us down. In our patience we must learn humility and gratitude for those things we can learn from each and everything that we begin. The quicker and more complete we learn our godly lessons, the sooner we’ll grow as we mature in the things of the spirit. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

_{Resource: Expositor’s Bible Commentary; copyright 2004.}

Walking Thru Ecclesiastes

Solomon’s practical counsel

Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14 

"Extortion turns wise people into fools, and bribes corrupt the heart." - Ecclesiastes 7:7

            This verse reveals to us in part how NOT to live your life, for this type of behavior is unacceptable to the Lord.  All men are susceptible to corruption, even those who are considered wise. You’ve no doubt heard the phrase, “Everyone has their price”, well, a righteous man of God should never buy what they are selling because it only takes one wrong decision to destroy one’s reputation. We are to be the opposite of the world, not just like them. 

A person’s reputation is tied closely to his or her personal integrity, which is tied to trust. When a person’s integrity becomes compromised in some way, it is very difficult to re-establish trust with others. One should never use their power or influence for their own personal advantage or gain. That is a sin and unacceptable to our Lord. A righteous man stands his ground. He upholds the laws of God. He turns his back on all evil and all compromising situations. A person’s good, healthy spiritual condition can become destabilized by crimes such as those mentioned in verse 7.

            Once a person’s trust is broken, their life becomes far more difficult than it was before. Mistakes are made and sins are committed by the most ardent believers, however, because of God’s grace we are never defined by our past mistakes. Consequences will still come into play, but if sought we will find ourselves forgiven. God can still use us after we fall. Repentance is critical and accepting God’s forgiveness without any doubt of its realness and sincerity is equally critical. They are the first steps toward healing. 

            Avoid sinful behavior at all costs, but if you stumble, stand up, dust yourself off, seek forgiveness and move forward. Bathe yourself in the word of God and determine to not fall for the devil’s tricks again. Remember, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:7-8). Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Old Testament (Copyright 2004); Reformation Study Bible (by Ligonier Ministries); and NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible (Copyright 2019 by Zondervan).