2nd April 2024

2nd April 2024


Pray (ACts)


Read (Ecclesiastes 9v13-18)


Message (Scott Woodburn)


There was once a small city which had seen better days. It had at one time been an important centre for trade but it had fallen on hard times and now very few people lived within its walls. Nevertheless, one day a great king came against the city. The king had a great army at his command and he soon set about besieging the city (v14).


Humanly speaking all looked lost. How would such a small city stand against a mighty king? It wasn’t by might or power but by the wisdom of a poor wise man (v15). When all others panicked, the wise man kept his head and gave advice that saved the city from the mighty king’s clutches. You’d think that his fellow inhabitants would have made the wise man rich - at the very least they should have made a statue of their hero. But, alas! The wise man was quickly forgotten and life returned to normal (v15b).


What conclusions did Solomon draw from this parable? There are three. Firstly, even though the poor man was forgotten along with his wise words, Solomon was convinced that wisdom was better than might (v16) and better than weapons of war (v18). Brothers and sisters, you do not need to meet fire with fire. You do not need to beat your enemy at his own game. Entrust yourself to the Lord and follow his ways even if the whole world doesn’t notice.


Secondly, although it is often the case that the loudest voices are heard and the squeaky wheel gets the oil, quiet wisdom is better than foolish shouting. Brothers and sisters, do not despise that gentle voice of wisdom. Appreciate those who love you enough to gently guide you rather than loudly praise you.


Finally, a good work of many years can be destroyed by the actions of one sinner (v18). Brothers and sisters, never underestimate sinners and their sin. You may think that “his” gossip is harmless or “her” actions are just a bit of fun but congregations have been destroyed by less. Give the enemy no room to move in your fellowship - close the windows to him and bar the door, for the work of the Gospel is too precious to allow it to be trampled by fools.   


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q2 What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him? The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.
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