Thoughts on Ecclesiastes 7:8

Thoughts on Ecclesiastes 7:8 by John W. Ritenbaugh

"The end of a thing is better than its beginning; The patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit."

Solomon shows patience to be a very valuable attribute that brings us success in our endeavors and favor in other's eyes. We should not dismiss the value of patience because of this more secular perspective because it has definite, overlapping spiritual value as well.

Solomon's approach is not with God in mind as our example, but that patience is prudent in our dealings with others with whom we interact and in events with which we must deal.

For instance: "The end of a thing is better than its beginning; and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit," (Ecclesiastes 7:8).

It is interesting that Solomon connects impatience to pride. He observes that the impatient haughtily seize on something before its conclusion is worked out, while the patient see a thing to its end and are rewarded. Does this principle not apply to God working with us?

Proverbs 14:29 holds a similar thought: "He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, but he who is impulsive exalts folly."

Patience grows from a combination of faith, hope, love, and self-control.

As these two proverbs and many more reveal, we should cultivate patience because it shows understanding and because it is wise.

Wisdom produces success, and being successful in glorifying God within us and in our circumstances is what life is all about.