Day 25 "Between Extremities"

In China, more so in ancient days but also today, the wisdom of man is very highly valued. Older people are respected for their wisdom and experience.

Wise sayings of Confucius, LaoZi and many more circle around to this day. Confucius once said, “By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”

Yes, wisdom is valuable. Wisdom protects and preserves you from living a life of regrets. But Wisdom is nothing outside of God. what I guess Solomon was trying to say, was that even the wisest men will die, and every bit of knowledge gained and lives well lived will perish. What is the purpose of discovering all the secrets of life and the right arts of living when we are but a short wisp of breath? Without God, wisdom is like trying to climb, in your own strength, a vertical ladder to nowhere. No matter how high up the rungs you go, you still won’t get anywhere, because the only way to God, the very source of wisdom, is to trust Him to fly you there with the wings of eagles.

Many times Solomon mentioned the best way is to live and enjoy life and toil. I think that he doesn’t mean to chase after pleasures but rather to find delight in every thing that you do, be it work or play. Contentment in everything is the best balance. As Solomon put it, “to accept their lot and be happy in their toil - this is a gift of God”(Ecclesiastes 5:19).

“When times are good, be happy;
    but when times are bad, consider this:
God has made the one
    as well as the other.”

(Ecclesiastes 7:14)

There is a quote along the lines of “Satan sends pairs of opposites into the world. Often we flee from one and cling to another.” Though debatable, there is somewhat truth in that statement. That isn’t to say that everything is relative and not absolute, but rather saying that extremities are not always beneficial. So many churches today divide because of disagreeing extremities. Rather than quarreling over meaningless words or style differences, we should be content, and seek always the childlike relationship with God. 

“In this meaningless life of mine I have seen both of these:

The righteous perishing in their righteousness,
    and the wicked living long in their wickedness.
Do not be overrighteous,
    neither be overwise—
    why destroy yourself?
Do not be overwicked,
    and do not be a fool—
    why die before your time?
It is good to grasp the one
    and not let go of the other.
    Whoever fears God will avoid all extremes."
(Ecclesiastes 7:15-18)

Wisdom is precious and very valuable; but it should always begin, grow, and end 
in the Fear of God.