The Limits of Attaining Wisdom for Sinful Man

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By Rev. Thomas Miersma

Sample:
“All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but it was far from me” (Eccl. 7:23). Solomon reviews what he has sought out, proved, and tested by the wisdom given him of God. He has set before us, in chapter 7, the sober reality of death and sorrow, the folly of sin and pride, the sovereign providence of God, and the strength that wisdom gives, including the knowledge of one’s own sin. But in seeking after wisdom and understanding he also reached a limit. He has proven much, but when he sought to be wise, he could not attain to its perfection. He was yet a man, a creature of the dust, and also a sinner.

We must put what Solomon says in the context of his own life and conduct as king over Israel, his rule from the throne, and the life of the palace.