Dangerous Work

He who splits wood may be endangered by it…Ecclesiastes 10:9

Wood cutting is a common winter-time business. It is hard work and dangerous. Verse 10: If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength. But wisdom brings success. Chapter 10 is a clear warning about foolishness. Perhaps the most often quoted verse is verse 2: A wise man’s heart is at his right hand, but a fool’s heart is at his left. Especially in these politically charged days.

The wisdom of Solomon in chapter 10 is more practical. Every joy has its dangers. Even the person who works at home is in danger. Seclusion may be their enemy. Children are still trying to recover from the recent lock-downs. Professionals can also become casualties of their own design. Merely staring out the window (instead of working) can bring a person to ruin. Verse 10:8: He who digs a pit will fall into it. 

There are spiritual battles to be fought in every occupation. Even the firewood provider can be tempted. No job is completely safe. Pride can enter the heart of anyone, regardless of where they work. Verse 1: as a fly can spoil the ointment, so does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor.  Even in the words we speak. Verses 12- 13: The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious, gut the lips of a fool shall swallow him up, the words of his mouth begin with foolishness, and the end of his talk is raving madness. We know this is true.

Clearly, the work to keep ourselves to ourselves is hard work. No one who thinks he is safe from pride is truly safe. Only those sealed by the Holy Spirit are free. You are free. You are free to speak a kind word to the clerk, to the mechanic, to the nurse, to the wood splitter.