Daily Devotions
Ecclesiastes
"It will not be well with the wicked"
Text: Ecclesiastes 8:13
THE FATE OF THE WICKED
Sometimes the wicked are envied because they seemed to be doing well and they have not been punished for their wickedness (Psalm 73). On the other hand, the righteous seem to have a hard time on earth. Solomon’s understanding about the fate of the wicked is to be carefully noted.
“But it will not be well with the wicked;
nor will he prolong his days, which are as a shadow,
because he does not fear before God.”
Ecclesiastes 8:13
1. “But it will not be well with the wicked”
a) In the short run, the wicked may seem to prosper and do well.
b) But in the long run, the wicked will not do well.
i) This understanding was based on close observation.
ii) Solomon had devoted much time researching this matter.
iii) The correct focus must be one that considers the ultimate end
and not the immediate moment.
2. “Nor will he prolong his days, which are as a shadow”
a) The wicked may prolong his life for a few extra “days”.
i) He has the means to eat well.
ii) He has the means to afford good doctors.
iii) But how long could he extend his life?
b) Our days on earth are but a shadow.
i) One may cast a long shadow.
ii) But when the sun begins to set, our life is but a shadow.
iii) Ultimately, the wicked would have to face death.
iv) He would have to face the judgment of God too.
v) All his wealth and power would not be able to save him in that fateful hour.
3. “Because he does not fear before God”
a) This is a reference to how he has lived.
b) He has no regard for the poor and helpless.
c) He continues to live wickedly for the following reasons:
i) He does not believe in God.
ii) He believes in himself.
iii) He believes in his wealth and influence.
4. But what if his belief system is wrong?
a) Death reminds him that he is not invulnerable.
b) It reminds him that he is only a mortal.
c) It reminds him that he will go the way of the earth.
d) From dust he was made, and to dust he will return.
To what end would be all his wealth and power?