Ecclesiastes 7:14

Ecclesiastes 7:14 (ESV): “In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man may not find out anything that will be after him.”

When a person doesn’t trust God with their life, despair can set in. It’s one thing to understand that He is sovereign, but we must also trust that He has our best interests in mind.

The Preacher (Solomon) concludes that God is sovereign over every aspect of our lives—both our best and our worst days. That truth should bring comfort and lead us to praise. However, the Preacher wrestles with this reality. Instead of comfort, it brings him to a place of despair. He begins to doubt the goodness of God and the wisdom of His plan for the future.

Who do you give glory to for your good days? And who do you blame for the bad ones? God is sovereign over both. He uses them to shape and refine us. As Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Don’t doubt God’s goodness—He has a great plan for your life, and He is in control of everything. Trust Him!

Father, what an amazing truth we have—that You are sovereign and in control. That means whatever we face, You have allowed it for Your purposes. Strengthen us to trust You in both the good and the difficult times. Your will be done, we pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.