Joy in the Midst of Injustice

This morning as we continue in our study through the book of Ecclesiastes, we consider Ecclesiastes 8:10-17. The Preacher explores two vanities that he sees in life under the sun. First, those who do evil in life are honored in their death or were not remembered for what they were really like. Secondly, those who do evil in life are often rewarded as those who do good, while those who do good are often rewarded as those who do evil. The answer to this mystery or enigma of injustice is to humble ourselves in reverential awe of God and be joyful. We don't need to despair that we don't know why these things happen. We can not comprehend all that God is doing. Instead, we can humble ourselves and find joy in God.

Instead of being joyless, or finding joy in things that aren't ultimately satisfying, this passage invites us to find joy in Jesus as the greatest gift given to us. True Christian joy is not found by looking within or trying to muster up happiness that we know should be there. True Christian joy is cultivated and fueled by looking to Jesus and believing all that God has done for us in the gospel.