How does Ecclesiastes 8:12 encourage perseverance in righteousness despite life's injustices? The tension we feel • “Although a sinner commits a hundred crimes and still lives a long time…” (Ecclesiastes 8:12a) • Solomon names the hard reality: wicked people can pile up offenses and still enjoy lengthy, comfortable lives. • Watching that happen triggers questions every believer faces: – Why does God seem slow to act? – Does righteousness really matter if evil appears to pay better? Truth anchored in verse • “…yet I know that it will go well with those who fear God, who stand in awe before Him.” (Ecclesiastes 8:12b) • The writer moves from what he sees (“Although…”) to what he knows (“yet I know”). Sight says injustice wins; faith says God vindicates His people. • “Fear God” = live in reverent trust and obedience, not terrified dread (cf. Proverbs 1:7). • “Go well” = ultimate welfare, both in this life under God’s providence and in eternity under His judgment (cf. Romans 2:6-8). Lessons for persevering in righteousness • Separate observation from conclusion – You may see evil thriving, but don’t let what you see rewrite what God has said (2 Corinthians 5:7). • Take the long view – The wicked man’s long life is still short against eternity (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). • Anchor confidence in God’s character – “The LORD is righteous in all His ways” (Psalm 145:17). • Keep sowing good seed – “Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we will reap” (Galatians 6:9). • Remember God notices every act of reverence – Malachi 3:16-18 shows a “book of remembrance” for those who fear Him. What “go well” really means 1. Present assurance – Peace of conscience (Isaiah 26:3). – Divine companionship (Hebrews 13:5-6). 2. Future reward – “In keeping them there is great reward” (Psalm 19:11). – Eternal life and honor (John 12:26; Revelation 22:12). 3. Vindication over injustice – Psalm 73 moves from envy of the wicked to worship when the psalmist “entered the sanctuary of God” and saw their end. Living it out today • Start each day rehearsing what you know, not what you see. • Choose practices that express reverence—truth-telling, generosity, sexual purity, faithful work. • When injustice stings, read passages like Psalm 37, Habakkuk 2, and James 5:7-11 to realign your perspective. • Encourage others by sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness; collective memory strengthens perseverance (Hebrews 10:24-25). |
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