#earlwoodanglican #GeorgeStivaktas #ecclesiastes

Be Prepared

Last week’s sermon passage opens the second half of the book of Ecclesiastes (Ecc
6: 10). After outlining the meaningless places people look for fulfilment in the first half
of the book, Qohelet now wishes to tell his readers what is good in life. He starts by
preparing his readers for life’s certainties. A failure to prepare for things we know will
happen is the very definition of foolishness. So what are these certainties of life?
The first is death (7: 1-4). Since the death rate is still hovering at 100%, a failure to at
least contemplate one’s death is foolish. Arguments such as ‘The Universal Constant’
theory shows the existence of God is much more rational than atheism. So if there is a
God, we need to determine which God (religion) is real, and how He wants us to relate
to Him. We then live this life in light of the next.
The second certainty Qohelet wants us prepared to face is mistakes (7: 5-7). Unless
we’ve somehow reached perfection, we will make mistakes in this life; either foolish
mistakes or outright sin. If we are too proud to face the possibility, let alone admit the
probability, that we might be in the wrong, then we are to be pitied.
The third is adversity (7: 8-10). If we try to ignore the certainty of hardship, hoping it will
never come, we will be crushed when it does hit. Qohelet recommends being prepared
through patiently trusting that God is using adversity for our benefit (Rom 8: 28).
The final certainty in life is blessing (7: 14). This universe is replete with God’s blessings,
which he gave for our enjoyment (1 Tim 6: 17). If we fail to intentionally enjoy these
blessings, because we’re too distracted by anxiety or depression, we are living a truly
miserable life, which God never intended. Yes there is adversity in life; but God blesses
us for our enjoyment.
So let’s not be caught unaware when these 4 things come our way. Rather, be prepared.

Brendan McLaughlin

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction – The Greek I am
04:42 - Wisdom with authority
09:02 - Wisdom with evil
14:58 - Wisdom with God



Bible Passage:
Ecclesiastes Ecclesiastes 8: 1-17

Preacher: George Stivaktas

Prayer for the day: Sunday - Trinity 1
Let us pray [that we will be faithful to our baptismal calling.]
Almighty, eternal God, when the Spirit descended upon Jesus at his baptism in the
Jordan, you revealed him as your own beloved Son. Keep us, your children born of
water and the Spirit, faithful to our calling. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ,
your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and
ever. Amen.