Sealed

God made man upright…Ecclesiastes 7:29

Solomon continues: But they have sought out many schemes, verse 29. When Solomon was made king of Israel, he asked God for wisdom. God answered his prayer, “I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before, nor shall any like you arise after you.” 1 Kings 3:12. And God gave him riches, verse 13. Solomon abused both.

Even so, his God-given wisdom produced profitable proverbs: Truly, this only I have found: that God made man upright, but they have sought out many schemes. Solomon was not the only person who abused their God-given gifts. Turning their talents into riches on earth rather than riches in heaven. They refused God’s refinement by pruning.

Much of the vine and the tree is removed to produce more fruit. Much of the diamond is cut away to reveal hidden beauty. Likewise, our “many schemes” have been forgiven to bring us upright. God does this because the end of a thing is better than its beginning. The patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.Verse 8. Jesus received a crown of thorns before the crown of gold.

Laying up treasures in heaven requires sacrifice. It is dying to self. Which you did. When you confessed your sins to God asking Him to forgive you died. That is, your former life was crucified with Christ. Your testimony is that of the Apostle Paul: I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20

God has removed all your previous schemes. He has given you a new heart. In fact, all things are new for you are a new creation. He has made you upright by sealing you with His Spirit!