“The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (ESV)
What is wisdom? Not the definition but the identifiable elements as practiced in life. The qoheleth (i.e. Preacher) who wrote Ecclesiastes tells us.
Wisdom is . . .
Rejoicing in the temporal goodness of this life (2:24).
Rejoicing and doing good with your life (3:12).
Approaching God properly (5:1).
Not speaking to God rashly or hastily (5:2).
Not behaving foolishly (5:3).
Making only serious promises to God and then fulfilling them (5:4-5).
Not promising something that you cannot keep (5:6-7).
Being happy with your life and accepting God’s approval (9:7).
Being happy with your spouse (9:8).
Being happy with you occupation (9:9).
Working diligently while you can (9(10).
Leaving the results of our work to God, since He judges its ultimate worth (11:1-6).
Understanding that God’s judgment is certain, and making our life choices accordingly (11:9-10).
Fearing God and keeping his commandments (12:13).
Recognizing that God will judge every secret as well as good and evil works (12:14).
Dear Father and our God, thank you for the wisdom you give us through your Word. Forgive us for failing to heed it. Empower us to live by it today, tomorrow and the rest of our lives. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today with the end of the matter,