Abide Together: Reflections on Ecclesiastes 3

“I said in my heart with regard to the children of man that God is testing them that they may see that they themselves are but beasts.” – Ecc 3:18

As you know, this is a very common passage and much has been said about the first 13 verses. However, today it was verse 18 that drew my attention. It’s not exactly the most comforting or quotable verse in the passage, but it is God’s Word nonetheless. I like the fact that this verse demonstrates our inadequacies and points us to God’s glory. It is clear that the things God does are eternal and the things we do are not. The verses about God’s timing reveal His sovereignty. In verses 16-17, we see that in spite of the evil that exists, God is still sovereign. In our courts, where justice is to be served, there is evil. In God’s house, where we seek righteousness, evil is still there. However……and by the way that’s a big HOWEVER, God is still in charge. And….again this is a big AND….according to verse 18, God even uses these circumstances to help us see who we are and more importantly, who He is. Even in our best attempts, we do not measure up. In our own power, we are “but beasts,” no different than the animals and all the rest of creation attempting something which we cannot do on our own. Justice can only be served by God Himself. We cannot attain righteousness on our own. We need a Savior. We need Jesus.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for revealing Yourself and our need for You in so many places. The sinful nature at war with the Spirit within me needs these reminders. In my weakness, You are there. In my failures, I see my need for You and am drawn closer to You. In light of You, I am “but a beast.” Thank you for Jesus and for the Spirit who has made me more and fights those battles within. AMEN.

Steve Corn