Reading the Word

Ecclesiastes 10:8–11 (ESV)
8 He who digs a pit will fall into it, and a serpent will bite him who breaks through a wall.
9 He who quarries stones is hurt by them, and he who splits logs is endangered by them.
10 If the iron is blunt, and one does not sharpen the edge, he must use more strength, but wisdom helps one to succeed.
11 If the serpent bites before it is charmed, there is no advantage to the charmer.

Understanding and Applying the Word

The words of today’s passage continue to remind us that life is full of unexpected turns and twists. We can make plans and work to fulfill our plans, but sometimes we are met with surprises. Life is not always easily planned nor are our desires and goals easily attained.

It is good to make plans and work to succeed in those things, but we must always remember that things are not fully in our control and that things can change in an instant. It is wise to be prepared and it is also wise to trust in God’s plans and purposes, which are greater than our own and which are guaranteed.

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