Ecclesiastes 7:16-18 (NASB):
"Do not be excessively righteous and do not be overly wise. Why should you ruin yourself? Do not be excessively wicked and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time? It is good that you grasp one thing and also not let go of the other; for the one who fears God comes forth with both of them."
I have been meditating on this passage, off and on, for several years now. Far from perpetuating the "balance" of today's psycho-babble, I believe there some great take-aways here for modern Christ-followers. I am still formulating how I'd like to address this passage, in a way that is relevant to the greatest number of readers, but here are a few personal applications that I feel represent the heart of what the Word of God is saying through Solomon:
- Go take your pastor out for a beer, but don't get smashed.
- Enjoy the senses God gave you (sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell), but faithfully in accordance to the ways He intended, for His glory.
- When the Bible seems too complicated to wrap your head around, stop and ask the Good Shepherd to help you love someone you don't like (Luke 6:32-36). That'll keep you busy for a while.
- If some foolish person frustrates you continually, try to imagine how frustrating to God your folly must be... He is a Father, after all, and a Person, with feelings. Then thank Him that His mercy endures forever, and covers suckers like us.
- Don't worry. About anything. (Matthew 6:25, Philippians 4:6)
That's all I have for now. Have a blessed day, friends.
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