Sermon Excerpts
August 2023
Without any prejudice:
“I have seen another misfortune on the earth: It is an error a ruler makes. Fools are placed in many positions of authority, while wealthy men sit in lowly positions. I have seen slaves on horseback and princes walking on foot like slaves.”
Ecclesiastes 10:5-7 NET.
Let’s meditate on the wisdom contained in the book of Ecclesiastes, concentrating particularly on the profound truth revealed in Ecclesiastes 10:5-7. This paragraph calls our attention to the effects that poor leadership has on society as well as its repercussions. Let’s explore this passage of scripture and draw important conclusions that might help us in our own positions as leaders and people.
I. Recognising the Error: In the first stanza, we are presented with a tragedy that the author has noticed on earth. It is a mistake committed by leaders who install fools in positions of power due to their ignorance or lack of judgement. This results in a sharp contrast where those who lack qualifications hold positions of authority while those who are wealthy and resourceful are demoted. The inequality that results from such choices is an obvious sign of how defective and harmful bad leadership is.
II. Imbalance’s Consequences: The author uses striking images to highlight the disorder and imbalance that result from this mismatch. He describes seeing slaves riding on horses as a metaphor for those who are undeserving of status and power assuming those positions. Princes, who should have the right to be in positions of power, are seen moving on foot like slaves. This artwork serves as a potent reminder of the negative effects that result from failing to appoint competent and qualified people to leadership positions.
Lessons for Individuals and Leaders,
This passage makes us think about the value of intelligent leadership and effective government. It increases awareness of the irrationality of human affairs and the inherent vulnerability of society. It emphasises the importance of using discretion and wisdom when choosing and appointing people to positions of responsibility in order to avoid the negative consequences of ineffective leadership. When making judgements that have a significant impact on the lives of many people, leaders are reminded to give priority to traits like honesty, wisdom, and competence.
This passage of scripture serves as a reminder for each person to be watchful and active in community decision-making. When we notice that unqualified people are being appointed to positions of responsibility, we need to speak up and express our concerns. By doing this, we work to create a society where everyone’s skills and abilities are valued and used effectively.
If we utilise our democratic rights and elect unqualified or bad candidates in the Church or politics, we will harvest whatever we have sown, whether it is for the better or worse.
The text emphasises the instability and imbalance it causes in civilizations by exposing the effects of leaders’ bad judgements. It serves as a reminder for both individuals and leaders to pursue discernment and wisdom in order to advance justice, fairness, and stability in our communities.
As we negotiate our positions as leaders and as individuals, may we be motivated to ask God for wisdom and to rely on His mercy and grace. Let’s work together to create a society where only capable and qualified people are given positions of power, ensuring everyone’s welfare and prosperity. Thanks for reading.
May God remember you and grant us the Grace to walk in the fear of God.
Be Blessed dear!!!
