Ecclesiastes 10:15 (KJV) “The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the city.”
In today’s Scriptural text, Solomon shows us how “foolishness” leads to frustration and weariness. The word, “labour” refers to one’s efforts, works, activities, striving, or attempts at success. The fool utilises a lot of energy but his labour exhausts both himself and others who deal with him. In modern terms, we can say, he is busy but not productive, always moving, but going nowhere. Hmm. So sad! The reason for the failure of the fool is that “he knoweth not HOW TO go to the city.” To “not know how to go to the city” is a metaphor for IGNORANCE. Ignorance turns simple tasks into burdens. Lack of knowledge produces frustration and confusion. The difference between success and struggle lies in “knowing the way”.
Now, “wisdom” can be defined as the knowledge of the “how to” do whatever your hand finds to do. Wisdom is not just knowing what to do, but how to do it, the right way, at the right time, and for the right purpose. Effort without wisdom leads to weariness. The wise plan before they act. Knowing “how to go to the city” symbolizes having a clear sense of direction in life. Without purpose and direction, labour becomes exhausting. Hard work must be joined with wisdom for it to produce results.
Written by: Pastor Andrew A Esemudje