JUN 1

Ecclesiastes 8:9-10
Memorise Romans 12:19
“Overcome evil with good”

Looking beyond death, he knows that God’s judgment is also sure. As Solomon sees the wicked rule of man, how there are occasions where one man rules over another in corruption and wickedness, he makes certain observations.

Firstly, such a wicked rule is carried out to the hurt of the ruler. Solomon may well be referring to the wicked king Saul here, for he was one to rule over God’s people, and can be said to have come and gone from the place of the holy. He was buried, and the memory of him was despised in the hearts of the people, and therefore soon forgotten. He speaks of those who have stood in positions of authority, even in the holy city and throne of God, and exercised authority in God’s name. Yet they were wicked men, and this indeed is a vanity. It seems to be such a great injustice, that wicked men prosper and wield so much power in this world. Their rules are characterised by selfishness, and are never for the good of those under him. Ultimately their end will not be good, for although they might seem to a have it good in this life, Solomon knows that their end is in God’s hands.

There are some countries today that continue to be oppressed by such wicked rulers who have no regard for God, or God’s people. In fact, Christians in some countries today continue to face persecution, for they are imprisoned for preaching the gospel, and some are even put to death! When we hear of such news, we feel this deep sense of anger and injustice. However, here we are reminded that they will have their end, and God is ultimately the one in control.

Likewise we may face certain injustices in our lives, of course to a much lesser extent. We may sometimes face unfair treatment, or are wronged by people in authority. How will we react and respond to such situations? Will we get angry and try to seek our own revenge? Or will you heed the advice in Romans 12:19 that tells us, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”

Thought: Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good
Prayer: Lord, help me to be wise in responding to times in which I am unjustly or unfairly treated.