Read Ecclesiastes 4

“Better a poor and wise youth Than an old and foolish king who will be admonished no more.” — Ecclesiastes 4:13

This verse speaks on many levels to the broken human condition. Mankind is quick to favor those who have a worldly place of prominence, whether it be their position, their prosperity or their prime of age. But those who are poorer, younger, and of a lesser status are easily shuffled away.

But the wise King Solomon brings out the truth — such worldly esteems are vanity. It is not the age, but the wisdom which one possesses. It is not the wealth, but the humility which one is able to be led by. It is not the position, but the faith which one has in God.

Did not our Lord say —

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3) & “Whoever humbles himself as [a] little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4)

The youth who is dressed in rags, but has the wisdom of the King of kings is better off than a well-decorated dignitary who exalts himself and refuses to be corrected. Having the wisdom of God and the humility of a child is everything!

“Rebuke is more effective for a wise man Than a hundred blows on a fool.” (Proverbs 17:10)

Therefore, Beloved, we must carefully heed the warnings of King Solomon and be mindful not to think we are immune to the vanity of our own ways.

Are you able to esteem wisdom regardless of the age who speaks it? Truly, some of the greatest mistakes I’ve ever made have come from ignoring the advice of my children. Are you able to be corrected? — or are you fixed in yours ways like a pillar in concrete? Complacency is a very real danger we must be on guard about.

Oh, how the devil loves to use our age and experience against us to fill us with pride! But wisdom and humility are the principle thing. When it is found, it is found — regardless of age, wealth or position. And when it is missing, it is missing — regardless of age, wealth or position.

May we seek wisdom in all of our years, humility in all of our ways, and instruction in all of our learning.

“Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” (Proverbs 9:8–9)