ESOCS Devotional 27 May 2023
MEMORY VERSE: “Let us hear the conclusion of the matter fear God and keep his commandments for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13
TEXT: ECCLESIASTES 12:9-14
9 And furthermore, because the Preacher was wise, he [Solomon] still taught the people knowledge; and he pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs.
10 The Preacher sought acceptable words, even to write down rightly words of truth or correct sentiment.
11 The words of the wise are like prodding goads, and firmly fixed [in the mind] like nails are the collected sayings which are given [as proceeding] from one Shepherd.
12 But about going further [than the words given by one Shepherd], my son, be warned. Of making many books there is no end [so do not believe everything you read], and much study is a weariness of the flesh.
13 All has been heard; the end of the matter is: Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is] and keep His commandments, for this is the whole of man [the full, original purpose of his creation, the object of God’s providence, the root of character, the foundation of all happiness, the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun] and the whole [duty] for every man.
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it is good or evil.
Read Yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
Wisdom means the application of knowledge. We get knowledge from study, hearing, counsel, experience, etc. But the ability to practise what we know is a difficult thing among humans. In the church, in the family and in society, we have trained and experienced priests, seasoned politicians and family elders but sometimes we do not feel the impact of their knowledge. in their administration.
It all depends on the source of one’s wisdom. Solomon the writer of Ecclesiastes was wise and his wisdom came from God. He asked for it and God gave him (1 Kings 3:9-12). God gave him “a wise and understanding heart.” With this, in both the administration of Israel as a king, his family and his judgements, Solomon exhibited uprightness and truth (Eccl. 12:9-11).
The way to start life in whatever capacity is to pray to God for the power to know and apply the truth that we have known to suit the will of God. It makes no meaning if one acquires more knowledge and lacks the power to exercise it in the manner that will please God. (Eccl. 12:12).
The power to fear God and keep His commandments is in the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit is the carrier of the wisdom of God. It comes in the life of a believer the moment one truly believes, accepts and confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Saviour. From then, the ability to walk after the Spirit and not after the flesh is received. (Rom. 8:1, 2).
Let us therefor seek the wisdom that comes from heaven that we may at last qualify to be accepted by God. (Eccl. 12:14).
- Do you seek God’s direction in everything you do?
- Guide me oh great Jehovah. I have none else but you, in Jesus name. Amen.
FURTHER READING: Isaiah 42:5-12; Acts 4:32-end; Acts 9:26-31
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ESOCS Devotional 27 May 2023
