...Says A Man Who Totally Betrayed God

This, too, I carefully explored: Even though the actions of godly and wise people are in God’s hands, no one knows whether God will show them favor. The same destiny ultimately awaits everyone, whether righteous or wicked, good or bad, ceremonially clean or unclean, religious or irreligious. Good people receive the same treatment as sinners, and people who make promises to God are treated like people who don’t. [Ecclesiastes 9.1-2]

...Says a man who totally betrayed God!

Solomon's own words indict him. He speaks of wisdom and foolishness with great understanding but himself falls victim to foolishness - how wise is that?

In some ways, the wisest man to ever live demonstrated the greatest foolishness.

So really, it's not about wisdom, is it?

How much better is obedience than wisdom? It is eternally better!

So, as we consider the published wisdom of Solomon, we must remain mindful that even with all the wisdom he possessed, he still betrayed God.

As I read Ecclesiastes, I do so with a wary eye and a cautious heart. The passage noted above is indeed "in the Bible" but it was the "wisdom" of a man whose example should not be followed! 

The burden lies upon each one of us to discern whether or not these words are for us to embrace and follow, or to abhor and avoid.

My personal conclusion is that I will believe God Who says He blesses the obedient and that curses are the reward for disobedience! I will furthermore believe Jesus Who said, "Seek first God's Kingdom, and blessings will follow..." I refuse to accept the instruction of a man who made all these "wise" observations and turned to the lustful debauchery of worshiping Ashtoreth and Molech to please his many wives.

To Solomon's credit, he did ask God for wisdom - and God gave it. But, the sad truth is forever written in history - Solomon ignored the very wisdom he was given, turning his back on God Who gave that wisdom.

I am no better than Solomon - I too have squandered so much! So, reader, beware! If what I say here is not consistent with the story of God in the Bible, then I too should be read with a wary eye and a cautious heart!

Father, Solomon,, as wise as he was, is no example to me (for righteousness). I want to hold to Your Word and the words of Jesus - I know I can rely on what You have said. Thank You.