God has made both the good and bad times that we experience throughout life. We naturally desire happy times. Happiness and comfort can sometimes even become an idol. But bad times and difficulties are when we can acquire wisdom and have a proper perspective about God and our earthly life.

The wise understand that death, mourning, and fasting are all like bad-tasting medicine that is very good for our hearts. These bad times teach us about our mortality (2) and that we ultimately need God to save us from death. Frustration and rebuke are further opportunities to gain wisdom and to sober our hearts. The wise must also guard their hearts (7). The wise are encouraged to be patient, not easily provoked to anger, but to see a matter to the end for that is how the wise grow in wisdom. Although acquiring and growing in wisdom is hard, it preserves those who have it.

True wisdom and a sober heart lead us to God. When times are good, we are encouraged to be happy. But God has made bad times too. He is in control of both. As you experience bad times, turn your heart to God. You cannot foresee what God will do with it (14) but you can trust that God's sovereign plan is working for your good (Ro 8:28).


Application: Father, thank you for good and bad times. Grow me in wisdom and faith in you.
One Word: God has made good and bad times