Ecclesiastes 7:1-14
After the low point of chapter 6, Solomon answers the unasked question, “Where might wisdom be found?” The answer is counterintuitive to most of our lives.
We spend a great deal of time, energy, and resources attempting to distract ourselves from difficult things. But there are times when the shallow, banal, and tinny entertainments are blown away like dust in the wind. In this passage Solomon mentions several unpleasant occasions that can be times for real and meaningful maturing. It is in suffering that we have real spiritual growth and progress. Who has ever said, “I had a great spiritual insight at an amusement park"? But at the funeral of a loved one, after a bad diagnosis, or in the midst of suffering, we tend to ask better questions.
Much of our culture is built around the industry of frivolous distractions. This is like burning thorns in a fire; they burn fast and bright. Not nearly long enough to give off any heat. Enjoy life, but also gain value from or out of adversity.
“Lord, keep me from the shallowness of the soul and teach me in the difficult moments of life. AMEN.”
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