Ecclesiastes 9-10
-Devotion by Paula Kirkpatrick (MN)
With any activity, there can often be a hidden risk involved. It’s simply a fact of life and the fallibility of the human race. The writer of Ecclesiastes, chapter 10, points this out in verses 8-10.
Dig a pit – you might fall into it.
Break through a wall – a serpent might be on the other side and bite you.
Quarrying stones could result in injury.
Splitting logs could be dangerous.
The Preacher elaborates on the log splitting with a simple explanation.
“If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge, then he must exert more strength.”
Simple logic, what we might call a “no brainer.” But as the writer has been sharing throughout Ecclesiastes, foolish people lack good sense.
“Even when the fool walks along the road, his sense is lacking and he demonstrates to everyone that he is a fool.” (Ecclesiastes 10:3)
One of my husband’s favorite television programs is “Forged in Fire,” found on the History Channel. Four bladesmiths compete in three rounds of elimination, forging various kinds of knives or other bladed weapons, out of diverse kinds of steel. Besides the drama of completing their blades during a three-hour period, the competitors must also get them hardened and sharpened for rigorous testing.
During the last minutes of the first round, viewers often see the bladesmiths feverishly sharpening their blades on sanding belts, the sparks flying. They want their blades as sharp as possible before they are tested. The goal? To watch Judge Doug Marcaida test their blades, perhaps slicing through a row of apples or sacks filled with sand, and say these words. “Your edge is razor sharp. Your blade—Will Cut!”
A dull axe shows a lack of preparation. A lack of preparation for log splitting can result in more work, and even possible injury. The difference between the wise and the foolish could not be clearer.
Each day is a new beginning in our pursuit of a meaningful life. If we don’t prepare properly for that day, we often miss out on opportunities to live a life of purpose.
Don’t live the life of a fool—unfocused, and directionless.
“The toil of a fool so wearies him that he does not even know how to go to a city.” (Ecclesiastes 10:15)
Seek the wisdom of God, assured that whatever the day brings, whatever activity or opportunity presents itself, you will be prepared to confidently meet it.
“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” (James 1:5-8)
Reflection Questions
- In the spirit of Ecclesiastes 10, what kind of example can you give of a fool?
- How do you prepare for each new day God gives you?
Prayer
Dear Wise, Righteous and Loving God – help me learn from You and Your Word. Show me how to prepare and to live a life of wisdom, righteousness and love, making the most of every opportunity. Thank You for the gifts you give daily. May I use them to faithfully serve You.
Seek Grow Love 