Ecclesiastes 9 reflects on life’s uncertainty and inevitability of death, emphasising that fate comes to all, regardless of righteousness or wisdom. It encourages seizing life’s opportunities with joy, recognising human limitations, and trusting in God’s sovereignty over the unpredictable nature of existence.
A Craftsman
Imagine a craftsman working diligently on a project, carefully shaping every detail with precision and care. His hands are steady, his focus unwavering, and his heart set on delivering the best work possible. As he works, the words of Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NLT) echo in his mind: “Whatever you do, do well. For when you go to the grave, there will be no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom.”
He knows that life is brief, and the opportunity to make an impact is now, through the work of his hands and the integrity of his heart. His thoughts turn to Colossians 3:23-24 (NLT), reminding him that his effort is not merely for people but ultimately for the Lord: “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.” In every task, no matter how small, he sees a chance to glorify God, striving to honour Him with excellence.
Glorifying God in all things is more than just doing tasks well. It means aligning his thoughts with God’s Word and exercising faith. As Hebrews 11:6 (NLT) says: “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.” The craftsman knows that each action, done in faith, becomes a form of worship, whether it’s shaping wood, writing words, or helping a neighbour.
As he works, he recalls Romans 12:9 (NLT), which calls him to love others sincerely: “Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.” His hands might be busy, but his heart is open, committed to showing true love in everything he does. This love also requires self-denial, following the words of Luke 9:23 (NLT) “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.”
An Offering to God
The craftsman’s work, then, becomes an offering to God, as urged in Romans 12:1 (NLT): “I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.”
His work is not just for worldly gain, but an act of worship, a way of giving back to God in gratitude for His goodness. With each stroke of his hand, he commits his plans to the Lord, trusting that God will guide his efforts, remembering Proverbs 16:3 (ESV)”Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”
He works not for applause, but with enthusiasm, knowing that his true Master is the Lord, as Ephesians 6:7 (NLT) reminds him: “Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Whatever he does, he does it with all his heart, all his strength, and with the intent to glorify God. The craftsman knows that his time is limited, but the impact of his faithful work, done well and for God’s glory, will endure beyond his lifetime.