[10:11-11:10] Solomon warns of being bitten by snakes. He wants mankind to take a “middle of the road” approach to life. He wants them to be careful about what they say around people and to always take the middle ground. He states in Ecclesiastes 10:20b, “… and don’t make fun of the powerful even in your own bedroom. For a little bird might deliver your message and tell them what you said.” Solomon doesn’t want to “ruffle the feathers” of the rich and powerful. He felt it would be more profitable to keep quiet and favor the rich. The problem with this teaching is that it disregards the truth of God’s word. Believers in Jesus Christ must be willing to take a stand for truth found in the Word of God. God’s word never favors any man.
Solomon’s intent is to see how much he can gain in this life. Verse 2 of chapter 11 says, “But divide your investments among many places, for you do not know what risks might lie ahead.” Again, at first glance, this seems like great advice. The problem with this way of thinking is that Solomon was always looking out for himself. He was trying to see how much he could gain. Solomon’s giving had more to do with his gaining. Solomon only gave to others so he could gain in return.
He concludes chapter 11 with this statement, “Young people, it’s wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do. So, refuse to worry, and keep your body healthy. But remember that youth with a whole life before you is meaningless.” Solomon’s futility is based on life without Jesus. God’s word says that life is a gift. Life is a gift that is to be used for the glory of God.
