Ecclesiastes, 7
8. Better is the end of a thing than its beginning; and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.
8. Better is the end of a thing than its beginning; and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.
Ecclesiastes 7 addresses various topics, such as wisdom, death, patience and goodness. The chapter also brings reflections on the importance of not being overly fair or wicked, but always seeking a balance in life. Below are five verses related to these themes:
Proverbs 16:32: "Better is long than the brave, and what dominates his spirit than what a city takes." This verse talks about the importance of patience and self -control, something that is approached in Ecclesiastes 7:8, where it is said that it is better to be patience than being proud.
Psalm 90:12: "Teach us to tell our days, that we may reach wise heart." This verse talks about the importance of valuing time and seeking wisdom. This reflection is approached in Ecclesiastes 7:8-10, which talks about the importance of enjoying each day and not worrying too much about the past or the future.
Proverbs 7:1-2: "My son, keep my words, and hide within you my commandments. Keep my commandments and live; and my law, like the girls of your eyes." This verse talks about the importance of keeping God's wisdom and commandments. In Ecclesiastes 7:12, wisdom is described as a defense and a benefit to those who have it.
Proverbs 28:13: "Which covers your transgressions will never prosper, but what confesses them and will reach mercy." This verse talks about the importance of being honest with oneself and others. In Ecclesiastes 7:20, the sinful nature of the human being is approached, and it is said that there is no righteous man over the earth who does good and never small.
Psalm 41:1-2: "Blessed is the one who meets the poor; the Lord will deliver him on evil. The Lord shall keep him, and keep him in life; he will be blessed to earth, and you shall not give him to will of your enemies. " This verse talks about the importance of kindness and generosity. In Ecclesiastes 7:15, the importance of avoiding wickedness and injustice is addressed, and it is said that wisdom can protect man from destruction caused by these things.
“O meu passado, Senhor, à Tua misericórdia. O meu Presente, ao Teu amor. O meu futuro, à Tua Providência.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
