Perhaps
the theme continues, as Solomon warns us not to let adversity or our
free-thinking and enlightened attitude turn us into rebels and trouble-makers.
Perhaps
he is also suggesting here that a man’s wisdom and trustworthiness
may bring him into contact with kings and
leaders, and enable him to deal confidently and effectively with those
in authority, rather than shying away in fear.
Life
provides enough problems without us creating more by acting unwisely
– by breaking the law, championing a bad cause,
or siding with rebels and revolutionaries. In a democratic country,
of course, citizens do have various rights that they can, as Christians,
legitimately exercise.
The
implication here may be that a serious problem has arisen, in which
case, says Solomon, it is very important to learn to act diplomatically,
and to do the right thing at the right time. Do not bluster and blunder,
he seems to be saying, but make an effort to learn the proper
procedures and protocols for dealing wisely with every
difficult situation.
Pay
attention also to finding the proper time
to act – and do not let the misery,
or stress or fear due to the uncertainty of the situation, as the last
verse seems to imply, goad you into rash words and actions, which, in
a very authoritarian state, could get you thrown into prison and even
tortured and killed.
The
alternative rendering suggests that for every such situation, there
is a proper judgment or appropriate course
of action, a practical solution -- if only we take the time to search
it out.
Notice
that Solomon repeats himself (verses 5 and 6), possibly stressing the
importance of taking the time to analyze a problem situation thoroughly,
to consider it from every possible angle, to “think until it hurts”,
as modern millionaire Lord Thomson puts it -- until, at last, the muddy
waters of confusion clarify and the proper judgment
or correct course of action becomes crystal clear.
Paul
cites this section of Ecclesiastes in his letter to the Christians living
under the iron rule of the Roman Empire, urging them to acts wisely
and reminding them that even in the most repressive regimes, God is
still in ultimate control – and therefore that, Quote: “Everyone
must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there
is no authority except that which God has
established,” adding: “Do you want to be free from fear
of the one in authority: Then do what is right and will commend
you” (Romans 13:1,3).