How can we maintain faith when life seems unfair, as in Ecclesiastes 7:15? Setting the Scene: Ecclesiastes 7:15 “In my futile life I have seen it all: there is a righteous man who perishes in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man who lives long in his wickedness.” (Ecclesiastes 7:15) • Solomon voices the tension we feel when justice seems upside-down. • The verse does not deny God’s justice; it highlights our limited vantage point. Core Truth: God Remains Sovereign and Just • Psalm 73 mirrors Solomon’s struggle—yet ends with “God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26) • Job 34:12 reminds us, “Indeed, God will not act wickedly, and the Almighty will not pervert justice.” • What looks unfair in the moment fits within God’s larger, flawless plan. Why the Righteous Suffer, the Wicked Prosper (for Now) • A broken world: Genesis 3 explains why decay, disease, and injustice exist. • Divine patience: 2 Peter 3:9—God delays judgment to give space for repentance. • Refining faith: 1 Peter 1:6-7—trials prove and purify genuine faith. • Spiritual warfare: Ephesians 6:12—opposition arises because righteousness threatens darkness. Practical Steps to Steady Faith When Life Feels Unfair 1. Re-anchor in Scripture • Read accounts like Joseph (Genesis 37–50) where injustice serves a larger redemption. • Memorize Romans 8:28: “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God…” 2. Guard Perspective • 2 Corinthians 4:17-18—“our light and momentary affliction is producing…an eternal glory.” • View present setbacks through the lens of eternity. 3. Choose Trust over Analysis • Proverbs 3:5-6—lean not on limited understanding. • Surrender the “why” question and cling to the “Who” behind it all. 4. Remain Obedient • Galatians 6:9—keep sowing good; harvest comes “at the proper time.” • Continued obedience testifies that God is worthy even when blessings seem withheld. 5. Surround Yourself with Encouragers • Hebrews 10:24-25—meet together, spur one another on. • Testimonies of others who endured build resolve in our own trials. 6. Keep an Eternal Ledger • Revelation 21:4 promises final wiping of every tear. • Justice deferred is not justice denied; God will settle every account. Anchoring Hope in Christ’s Example • Jesus, the only truly righteous One, suffered and was crucified (1 Peter 2:22-24). • His resurrection proves apparent defeat can mask ultimate victory. • Following Him means embracing temporary injustice with confidence in eventual triumph. Living the Lesson Today • Accept that some “whys” remain mysterious until glory. • Let unfair moments drive you deeper into the character of God rather than into bitterness. • Hold fast to the assurance that the Judge of all the earth will do right—perfectly, publicly, and permanently. |
    |