July 6, 1997. Solomon realized that it's one thing to know what's right, but it's entirely another thing to do what's right. Only faith in the risen living Saviour can provide both the forgiveness we need when we fail, and the divine enablement we must have if we are to consistently do God's will. Shortcomings of Man. The Preacher is troubled by the fact that sometimes the righteous person died young and the wicked died old.
Righteousness is no sure protection against hard times or an early death.
If true righteousness and wisdom do not necessarily prevent ruin, then extreme, legalistic rightousness and wisdom will surely not help. Extreme wickedness is even more foolhardy. Wisdom and Folly. A. Wisdom is better. Wisdom makes one wise man better than ten rulers in a city.