[4:10-5:6] Even though Solomon was living for himself, he realized two people are better than one. If one person: falls, is cold, is being attacked… the other person can help. He then realized that if two is better than one; three are even better. He says in Ecclesiastes 4:12, “…a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”
Solomon tries to find satisfaction in political power as a youth and as an old king. He points out in verse 15, “But then everyone rushes to the side of yet *another youth who replaces him.” *Another youth means the second child. J. Vernon McGee points out in his daily broadcast that, “God has a way of choosing the seconds!” I love that about Jesus. He has a way of using the “down and outs,” the “failures,” and the “ones forgotten.”
Solomon then tries to find satisfaction in religion. Solomon realized it is better to enter the house of God and be ready to hear than to speak. He states in verse 2, “…let your words be few.” He encourages the reader to keep all the promises he makes to God. It is better to not decide under the stress of emotion. Ecclesiastes 5:5, “It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it.” When you make a commitment to God you better follow through on your commitment. God will hold you accountable.
