Ecclesiastes 7:1-14

summary
In 7:1-14 the Teacher turns upside-down things which we usually value; death, anger, mourning, and rebuke are better than feasting, laughing, rejoicing, and singing. He asserts that a good reputation and the lessons learned from mourning are more valuable than luxury or laughter, since death reminds us of life’s brevity. Wisdom gained through patient reflection is better than anger or pride, and the wise recognize that God allows both prosperity and adversity. Instead of longing for “the good old days” or assuming we can control outcomes, we are called to accept life as it comes from God’s hand fulfilling his purposeful plan.

key verse
7:2 It is better to go to a house of mourning
than to go to a house of feasting,
for death is the destiny of every man;
the living should take this to heart.

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

James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."