Insights from Ecclesiastes: Fools, Rulers, and Workers
Delve into the wisdom of Ecclesiastes as it explores the folly of fools, the challenges faced by rulers, and the characteristics of diligent workers. Reflect on the importance of wisdom, discernment, and humility in one's journey through life, and consider the impact of one's actions on reputation and relationships. Gain insights on everyday wisdom that can guide decision-making and interactions with others.
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Ecclesiastes 10 Fools, Rulers, and Workers
Solomon and Creatures Prov 30:24-31 - 5 animals and 2 insects Eccl 10 -(1) flies, (7) horses, (8,11) serpent, (20) bird Q - why does the world s wisest and wealthiest man notice such critters? - like Jesus - sheep, goats, foxes, camel, gnat, sparrow, snakes, scorpion, fish
The Fool (1) Dead flies putrefy the ointment causing a foul odor; So does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor. folly = silliness with a bad ending (10:13) Q - How is folly like a dead fly in ointment ? Q - How does silliness differ from jolliness? Q - Why is a reputation for being wise and honorable harmed by such foolishness?
(2) A wise man's heart is at his right (stronger) hand, but a fool'sheart at his left (weaker). fool = fat & ignorant. Q - How important is the heart to God? (see Matt 5:8; 6:21; 22:37) Q - What can happen when a person allows his heart to grow weak? (see Prov 4:23; Matt 15:19)
(3) When a foolwalks along the way, he lacks wisdom, and shows everyone that he is a fool. fool = silliness (same as vs 1) Everyday activities reveal character. Q-How can silliness show up in one s finances, time use, hygiene, speaking (12-14)? Q-Is there hope for fools? Ps 38:5; Prov 22:15
The Ruler (4) If the spirit of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your post; For conciliation pacifies great offenses. Conciliation = to make healthy, wholesome Q - What has caused this rise of spirit ? Q-Why might people leave their post rather than pursue conciliation? (Pr15:1)
(5-7) There is an evil I have seen under the sun, as an error proceeding from the ruler: 6 Folly is set in great dignity, while (valuable people) sit in a lowly place. 7 I have seen servants on horses, while princes walk on the ground like servants. Q -Do vs 5-7and vs 4have any connection? Q-What evils may arise from misplaced people?
(16) Woeto you, O land, when your kingis a child, and your princesfeast in the morning! (17) Blessed are you, O land, when your king is the son of nobles, and your princes feast at the proper time For strength and not for drunkenness! Q -Why the despair in (16)? (10:19; Isa 5:11) Q - What has changed in (17)? (Pr 31:4,5)
(20) Do not curse the king, even in your thought; Do not curse the rich, even in your bedroom; For a bird of the air may carry your voice, and a bird in flight may tell the matter. Q -Must we monitor even thoughts? (Phil 4:8) Q-We may not worry what birds hear, but should we care what smart phones hear ? Q-How should we handle being cursed? (Mt 5:11,12)
The Worker (8) He who digs a pit will fall into it, and whoever breaks through a wall will be bitten by a serpent. (9) He who quarries stones may be hurt by them, and he who splits wood may be endangered by it.. Q -Are these the words of Murphy s Law or paranoia? (Prov 22:13) Q - Should we support OSHA standards and whistleblowers? (10:4;Ex 2:11,12;Mt 22:39)
The Worker (10) If the ax is dull and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; But wisdom brings success. work smarter, not just harder . working wisely is typically much easier and more profitable. (city-slicker and the slow chain saw)
The Worker (15) The labor of fools wearies them. They do not even know how to go to the city! working foolishly is exhausting and often reveals a lack of direction. (18) Because of laziness buildings decay, and through idleness of hands houses leak. laziness only makes more work.
Solomons Discoveries About Fools - They stink up, swallow up, slow up, and show up. Rulers - They bring woe when irresponsible but blessing when self-governed. Workers - Depending on their laziness, foolishness, or wisdom, they will face danger, weariness, or success.
Next Time Ecclesiastes 7:16,17 Do not be overly righteous, nor be overly wise: Why should you destroy yourself? Do not be overly wicked, nor be foolish: Why should you die before your time?
