Wisdom for Words and Wealth

Rev. Timothy Kern, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Marlette, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 5:1-17. Solomon instructs us in the wisdom of guarding our words, both before God in worship and before others. Only when we are quick to listen to God’s Word will we know how best to speak before God. As we observe life under the sun, we should not be surprised by injustice and unrighteousness. Comfort is found in realizing that God is higher than all who would abuse their power in this way. Solomon notes once more that seeking after riches is vanity, for we end this life just as naked as we began it. Better than all this is to live with the fear of God for as many days as He gives. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon’s favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.