Ecclesiastes 8:11-9:12

summary
Ecclesiastes 8:11–9:12 laments the seeming unfairness of life. Because judgment for wrongdoing is often delayed, people continue in evil, yet the Teacher reminds us that God’s justice will prevail. He observes that both the righteous and the wicked share the same fate—death—which can make life seem meaningless. Still, he encourages finding joy in daily blessings like food, drink, and work, as these are gifts from God.

key verse
9:12 No man knows when his hour will come:
As fish are caught in a cruel net,
or birds are taken in a snare,
so men are trapped by evil times
that fall unexpectedly upon them.

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.