This is a continuation of last week's examination of Ecclesiastes 10, which looked at each verse or proverb and approaches it from our situations today.
VERSE 11 – We've all seen the television programs which feature a "snake charmer," someone who through their own body motion (and sometimes with a musical instrument) seems to hypnotize a snake so that it does not bite the charmer. These people possess no great power; merely the knowledge of how to orchestrate their movements so the snake remains docile. Yet that does not always work. Sometimes when the movement isn't right or the snake is in a particularly foul mood, disaster happens. We also apply the term "snake charmer" to those who have a somewhat hypnotic effect on other people through their charismatic words or looks. Just a snake has the nature to bite, so do those who are "all mouth," those who are not interested in substance or truth, just their own desires. Step on them, and they will bite you. This shows a lack of wisdom, which Solomon addresses in the next verse.
VERSE 12 – There are few things which can compare to the wise advice of a Godly person. This wisdom is seen even in the worst of circumstances; perhaps it would be better to say that this wisdom is seen in its fullness and most beautiful in the worst of circumstances. The saint of God knows how to handle the difficult situations of life, and the Lord's light shines brightly from these people. It does our soul good to know that when one of God's children makes it through a severe trial, the Lord will also be with us. It is so different when we see the life of the fool, when we hear the words of those who do not place their faith in God. There is no sadder picture than that person. Their words do not seek those things which are good, noble or praiseworthy. Eventually those words and that lifestyle will lead to ruin, either in this world or in eternity. Solomon is quite familiar with vain words, so it would do us well to listen.
VERSE 13 – There is no hope for the fool who never turns to the Lord. Their words, their attitudes, their lifestyle are foolish from the start, and it's all downhill from there. We have our own individual experiences with the raging crazies, with people we would describe (as Barney Fife so eloquently put it), "He's a nut!" But it is total lunacy, utter madness to reject the Lord and His ways, for the end is destruction.
VERSE 14 – Ever notice that some people can't shut up? PRESENT COMPANY EXCLUDED!!! Seriously though, there are some people who hang themselves with their words, who simply don't know when to quit. They act as though they know everything past, present and future, but in fact they don't even know themselves. It is only through the wisdom and knowledge of God that one can have any knowledge of life and of self. Life is only understood in the light of God and His Word; anything less falls short.
VERSE 15 – Much is said of the fool, because Solomon has lived that kind of life. He knows better than anyone the foolishness of the human heart. For all his vast wisdom he had let his flesh take control, and his wisdom took a back seat. Those who refuse to place Jesus on the throne of their heart and who follow any other path simply do not know where they are going. I've often been struck by the number of people who believe their way is just as valid, just as secure as that of the Bible, even though they are far from God's Word. All their work, all their words are empty; they never end up where they claim their path will lead them. Solomon gives us a picture of a city. It's hard to miss a city, but he says the fool completely misses it. The truth of God and His Spirit is right in front of us, yet so many miss it. This is an encouragement for us to make sure our eyes are truly opened so that we can see (as well as point the way to) the city of God: the Church.
VERSES 16-18 – Too many people are ruining their lives and the lives of those around them because of their spiritual immaturity. They seem to be interested only in instant gratification, taking the best first and leaving the rest to take care of itself. Wisdom can be seen in those who allow themselves to be matured through the Spirit of the Living God, even though that maturity may seem as foolishness to those who do not know God. There is a time for everything, and when it comes to the Lord, we need patience. There are good things and bad things, but good things can be bad when done at the improper time. Everything we do should be done to God's specifications, following His leading and His timeline, and it will always work out. But we are not to sit back, become lazy and complacent, for in that laziness our life begins to decay. Those who live in a house of any kind know that maintenance is required. A small problem can become a major problem if left unattended. You also notice that a house which is lived in seems to survive a long time, while even the best-built homes, when empty, fall to the ground much more quickly. Our lives are like those homes: our souls need constant attention, so that we can remain in "good working order."
VERSE 19 – Solomon had more money than anyone in the world, and we sometimes think that money solves all problems. We know that is not true. Solomon here is making a comparison to illustrate that money does not answer everything. Not every feast is for laughter (perhaps a dinner for the family of one who passes away). Not every bottle of wine makes merry (many drink to forget, to have fun, but end up with a ruined body and life). And we know money answers some things, but the most important things, the matters of the soul and the peace of mind, are not affected by wealth.
VERSE 20 – We end this chapter with some sound advice (one more verse of it, at least). We need to be careful what we think and what we say, because it does not stay private. Pastors are often the last people to know things going on, but on many occasions people tell their pastor what is going on, what has been said, problems, etc, when those things were thought to be private. Even if you keep your thoughts and words and complaints to yourself, eventually they will show through in some way in your life. Be careful, because these words and attitudes may be your undoing. Solomon did not have proper respect for his true King, the God of heaven, and because of this lack of respect and concern, the entire nation suffered spiritually. This verse is where we get the old phrase "a little bird told me." And I can say this: many of those "little birds" are more like preying vultures or "old buzzards" who like nothing more than to spread gossip and stir up problems. We are to trust, but realize that there are very few real "secrets." Where do we stand with God? What do we really think of our spiritual relationship with Him and with others? Do we really care about the souls of others? We'd be wise to look inwardly and make adjustments now before things get out, and out of control.
With this we bring to a close the tenth chapter of Ecclesiastes. Through these proverbs we gain such a great insight into Solomon as well as into our own selves. "Do as I say, not as I do" does not apply here. It's more of "Do as I say, not as I did. Don't make my mistakes." Will we listen? That is the ultimate question.
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