Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit. Ecclesiastes 4:6 KJV
Things that happen in life can be unjust and frustrating.
They occur all throughout our lives.
We often find ourselves wondering, how can we avoid the competitive atmosphere without being irresponsible?
A positive outcome is what we desire.
The writer of Ecclesiastes gives us an answer.
It is up to us how things end.
We all should want to be wise and follow the will of the Lord.
We know we get our best advice through Him.
In this passage, the writer talks about those who take a “me first” attitude.
The ones that feel everything is about them.
They plunge themselves into a multitude of activities that are aimed at getting more and making them feel they are doing better than anyone else (v.4).
He also declares in this writing how it is wrong when a person decides to give up and drop out (v.5).
When they do, they are giving the devil victory instead of allowing the Word to be their ultimate guide.
The One that always shows us what we are truly worth no matter our situation.
According to the writer, the way we behave and respond to things in life makes a difference.
With the dropout, we should be enjoying the blessings of life and sharing them with others.
With the competitive one, we should be reaching out for “one handful”, not two (v.6). Appreciating the fact that what God has gifted us with is important to the Kingdom.
In both cases, we should not show a lack in trusting God. The One we should rely on in all things.
It is only when we come to know Him, through the Savior, that we develop the confidence we need.
It is in our best interest to rely on His strength, wisdom, and goodness.
We should do this no matter how senseless or hopeless our situation may seem.
It really does give us peace and hope even though injustice abounds (vv,1-3).
Let us do things in moderation.
Taking the time to read the Word.
Learning more each day about His plans for our lives.
Our lives are so much better when we trust God.
He wants us to stay steadfast in the Word.
To obey His Word and do what we can to help others.
Letting nothing lead us in a wrong direction.
Remembering, that no matter our status in life, God looks at all of us the same way.
Follow the Lords’ lead.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Savior, there is so much we face in life every day. So many things that are unjust and unfair. We find comfort in knowing that You look at all of us the same. Keep us wise in Your ways. Making it easier for us to deal with all that we face. Making it easier for us to tell others about how You can bring us through anything that we face. Thank You for giving us the victory over the enemy.
In Jesus’ Name We Pray, Amen