In addition to being a wise man, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge; and he pondered, searched out and arranged many proverbs. The Preacher sought to find delightful words and to write words of truth correctly. The words of wise men are like goads, and masters of these collections are like well-driven nails; they are given by one shepherd. But beyond this, my son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body. The conclusion, when all has been heard is: fear God and keep his commandments, because this applies to every person. God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.
As we have said previously, the preacher is King Solomon. Solomon sought from God the gift of wisdom. The crux of the Book of Ecclesiastes and the Book of Proverbs is the fear of God in all of your ways. Solomon defines what he means by fear within the text. He states that the fear or reverence for God is manifested in the obedience of his commandments. So it is God's word, taken to the heart of his children that leads to wisdom which is the ability to live like skillfully and diligently before God.
Daily Prayer: Father, it seems that wisdom and humility come hand in hand. The humble man is one who does not place his faith in himself, but instead chooses to place his faith in you. When this happens, that man's soul is in your hands. This person is prone to obedience and depends on you for all of his reward. This person is truly wise and will not be disappointed. Amen.
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