Ecclesiastes 11

CHAPTER 11

Bread Upon the Waters (11:1–6)

1–6 In this section, the Teacher encourages us to take calculated risks, to take action even when one can’t predict the outcome. Casting bread upon the waters is a metaphor for being adventurous (verse 1); it is similar to the saying: “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”²² In verse 2, however, the Teacher cautions us not to put all our resources into one venture, in case it turns out badly; a similar saying is: “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”

At the same time, the Teacher counsels us not to be overly cautious or timid. We must not let the possibility of rain or a “falling tree” keep us from doing what needs to be done. The farmer who waits to be certain of the weather will never plant anything (verses 3–4). Yes, there are unknowns in life, things beyond our control, but we shouldn’t be deterred by them. Parents can’t tell how life is imparted to their unborn child, but they have to nurture and raise him nonetheless (verse 5). In short, says the Teacher: Sow your seed (verse 6); fulfill your daily responsibilities with diligence and enthusiasm. This is the only way to find meaning in life (Ecclesiastes 9:7).

Notice that the Teacher’s advice in these verses requires faith: take risks, move forward into the unknown, be optimistic. This brings us to the concluding section of the Teacher’s sermon, where we shall see that this faith, far from being blind or irrational, is FAITH in the living God—the God who orders our lives and gives meaning to our existence.

Remember Your Creator While Young (11:7–10)

7–10 In these verses, the Teacher tells young people to live life to the fullest, because days of darkness are coming—days of trial, sickness and old age—that lead inevitably to the grave; after that, everything will be meaningless²³ (verse 8).

But, in verse 9, the Teacher adds a crucial fact: everything we have done in life—all these things—will be judged by God. God will either punish us or reward us for what we have done on earth (see Ecclesiastes 12:14; 2 Corinthians 5:10). It is this fact that gives meaning to our lives.

In view of this, says the Teacher in verse 10, let us banish anxiety and cast off [our] troubles—the sins that so easily entangle us (Hebrews 12:1). If we seek to please God and obey His commands, we can place our future in His hands with confidence (Ecclesiastes 3:12–14; 12:13–14). Our youth and vigor are meaningless because they will soon pass, but our life with God will go on forever.