Ecclesiastes 4 - The Value of a Friend

 

Ecclesiastes 4 – The Value of a Friend

 

Solomon observed that the oppressors of this world have all the power, but neither the oppressed nor the oppressor have a comforter. So, the dead, being free from oppression are in a more favorable condition than the living, who continue on under oppression. He saw adversity and inequality, but he realized no one can make it alone.

 

Solomon describes two kinds of fools, one of laziness and one of excessive toil. Ultimately greed promotes riches over relationships (Prov 16:8). The real tragedy is when a person gains wealth and has no one to share it with. The solitary worker may get all the profits, but he is so busy making money that he has no time to enjoy it.  A handful with quietness is about a modest amount of goods or property acquired through calm, reasonable activity; Overexertion leads to aggravation and anxiety, abundance can cause sleepless nights. In moderation is peace and contentment.

 

There are risks in society as well as rewards, but the rewards are greater. If you fall and break a bone, or if you are in danger, you are thankful to have a friend at your side to help you. We all need times of solitude, but nobody can be independent. Life is tough enough even when we have friends to encourage us. It is hard to do it alone.

 

 

 

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