‘In the day of prosperity be joyful, But in the day of adversity consider: Surely God has appointed the one as well as the other, So that man can find out nothing that will come after him.’

 

Ecclesiastes 7:14

As believers, we never have to wonder or worry about why things happen in our lives.

Ecclesiastes 7:14, written by Solomon, 900 years before the cross, makes it clear that it is God who ordains everything that happens in the life of believers. Nothing has changed in the thousands of years since Solomon wrote this passage because God never changes (Hebrews 13:8). 

Solomon, known for his great wisdom, given to him by God (1 Kings 3:11,12), writes Ecclesiastes 7:14, a passage loaded encouragement by admonishing the reader to “be joyful” in good and bad times because the Lord is Sovereign and in control. Read on…

Ecclesiastes 7:14a

“In the day of prosperity be joyful, But in the day of adversity consider: Surely God has appointed the one as well as the other…”

God is Sovereign and rules over both types of days, therefore, we are to be Joyful in both prosperity and adversity.

Ecclesiastes 7:14b

“…So that man can find out nothing that will come after him.”

Knowing that God is Sovereign over everything in a believers life we have zero control over our future. Consequently, we must trust that no matter what the future holds it is all according to His purposes.

In conclusion, Ecclesiastes 7:14, reassures Christians that God ordains EVERY aspect of our lives. With that understanding, we don’t need to worry, instead rejoice and give God all the glory in both prosperity and adversity.

“Consider it pure joy, … whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” —James 1:2-3

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. —Romans 8:28

If this post was edifying or an encouragement to you please consider sharing.

Thank you,

Jamie Pantastico
Faith, Sine Qua Non