Reading the Word
Ecclesiastes 8:10–13 (ESV)
10 Then I saw the wicked buried. They used to go in and out of the holy place and were praised in the city where they had done such things. This also is vanity. 11 Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed speedily, the heart of the children of man is fully set to do evil. 12 Though a sinner does evil a hundred times and prolongs his life, yet I know that it will be well with those who fear God, because they fear before him. 13 But it will not be well with the wicked, neither will he prolong his days like a shadow, because he does not fear before God.
Understanding and Applying the Word
Today, we read of the seeming unfairness of life. The wicked die and are buried and receive dignified burials. Even though they do many evil things, they live long lives and justice does not come soon enough. It seems like complete vanity. Should not evil be judged and the wicked be cut off from life? They certainly should not be honored in their burials. Yet, this is not what we observe in life where evil seems to be rewarded.
The second half of the passage tells us that, while evil may seem to win for a time, we can be sure that those who fear God will see justice done. The wicked will be dealt with and judged by God. Scripture tells us that there is everlasting condemnation for those who are the enemies of God and everlasting life for those who have repented of their sin and trusted in Jesus Christ. The final Judge will bring complete justice to all. We must live our lives according to this truth.
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