Scripture Text: Ecclesiastes 8:11-13
Though a sinner does evil a hundred times and prolongs his life, yet I know that it will be well with those who fear God, because they fear before him.
Ecclesiastes 8:12
The author saw the injustice of human law and he observed that the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out. For that reason, the heart of man is inclined to do wrong and he will do it over and over again because of the delayed punishment he must suffer.
Many of the wicked prospered in the author's time. They live long by doing wrong and not be punished. However, let us remember that God already prepared a day of justice and reward for those who do wrong and for those who fear God. Because one day, we will face God to answer for all we have done, whether good or bad.
The author also observed that it is better to fear God and have reverence before Him, because fearing God teaches us to number our days right while to the man who does not fear God, his days will not lengthen like a shadow. It will become a short life to those who do wrong.
We Christians must admit that we have a mistake to sin against God; we must be aware that the sin must be cut-off early to avoid punishment or discipline from God. A God-fearing Christian must walk in God's will to do good and abstain from the sinful nature of man. We must understand that there is a reason behind these things why God did not quickly punish the wicked.
Again, Christians must remember not to assume that God does not care and that sin has no consequences. We must fear God at all times.
Reflect
1. Do you fear God?
2. Do you honor God in your life?
3. Do you confess immediately the sin you commit?
Remember
There is a time for everything. What and how the deeds of both the righteous and the wicked will be judged by the Lord at the final judgment. So, we Christians must pursue the will of the Lord and fear Him with all of our heart.
Read
Zechariah 9:1-8; Revelation 20:1-15; Ezekiel 20:1-29; Psalm 90:1-17
Pray
Dear Lord, we praise You for You are good God, who discipline us, Your children, to be a good servant of Yours. Guide us to walk in the right way and honor You in our lives. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.
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