How does this verse challenge societal views on power and influence? Setting the Scene “Now there was found in that city a poor wise man, and he saved the city by his wisdom. Yet no one remembered that poor man.” (Ecclesiastes 9:15) Power Reimagined • Society usually links power to wealth, title, or platform. • Scripture here spotlights a man with none of those trappings—yet he delivers an entire city. • The verse exposes a common blind spot: real influence often works quietly and sacrificially, outside the public eye. Why the Verse Stings Our Culture • Fame fades fast: the city quickly forgets its rescuer, proving how fickle human applause can be. • Wealth ≠ worth: lack of money did not limit the man’s usefulness to God. • Loud voices aren’t always wise: the most helpful perspective may come from the margins. Scriptural Echoes • 1 Corinthians 1:27–29—“God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” • James 2:5—God has “chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith.” • 1 Samuel 16:7—“Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” • Matthew 20:25–28—Greatness defined by service, not domination. Living It Out Today • Notice overlooked voices—seek counsel from those who show godly wisdom, not just a big following. • Measure success by faithfulness and impact, not by how many remember your name. • Cultivate wisdom through Scripture, prayer, and obedience; God can use it far beyond our social reach. • Celebrate quiet heroes in your church and community—teachers, caregivers, prayer warriors—who shape lives without headlines. Closing Reflection Ecclesiastes 9:15 flips the world’s scorecard. True power resides in God-given wisdom, exercised humbly. When that reality sinks in, status symbols lose their shine, and every believer—regardless of income or platform—can step forward, confident that the Lord delights to work through willing, wise hearts. |
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