Don't be Shocked ( Part One): Ecclesiastes 5 by Dr. Rod Mattoon

Scripture

• Ecclesiastes 5

About this sermon

If you have lived for any length of time, you know that life is filled with shocking things that leave us saying, “I can’t believe that happened” or “I can’t believe they did that or said that.” We are shocked by the tragedies of great catastrophes or by the crimes committed by people. Our nation still has not forgotten the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 or the attack of terrorists who crashed planes into the Pentagon and the World Trade Center towers in New York City on September 11, 2001, killing nearly 3000 people and wounding 6000 others. As the curtain opens on this portion of Ecclesiastes, we find that Solomon listed a number of issues that we should not be shocked about that occur in our lives day by day. Solomon warned here that you should not be shocked at the injustice in the judicial system, especially the unfairness that is shown toward those who are poor. Unfortunately, when some folks come into power, they abuse it. Their arrogance causes them to belittle others and it makes them feel they are not accountable to anyone. Why is injustice allowed to go on without correction at times? Solomon provided the answer. One reason is because of the Back Scratcher’s Club. Officials that are corrupt are protected by other officials with more authority that protect their backs or have dictated orders to them. There may be times we may feel powerless at the corruption that we witness. Yep, it is very frustrating. We may not be able to control what those in power are doing, but we can control our response. Let me add there is One who is higher than “higher ups” who are unjust. One day, the Lord will deal with those who are wicked and corrupt. He will make all matters right in His own time and in His own way. That is why we are to keep our focus on Him and trust in Him. This message was preached on Wednesday night, March 3, 2021 at Lincoln Land Baptist Church.