Ecclesiastes 11

11:1-6 All profitable activity involves risk. We must act as wisely as we can and trust God for the result.11:1-2 We should invest rather than hoard our resources, even if we cannot control the results.

11:3 clouds . . . rains: Sometimes we can be reasonably certain of what will happen. • a tree . . . stays where it falls: Our actions sometimes yield irrevocable consequences.

11:5 The activity of God is often unpredictable and mysterious. Our job is to work when we have the opportunity to do so (see Prov 12:11; 24:27).

11:9 Young people are encouraged to enjoy their youth to the fullest. They should also remember that they will give an account to God and should therefore avoid foolish behavior.

11:10 Youth, like life itself, is beneficial and enjoyable but ultimately meaningless, a fleeting vapor that passes away without apparent significance or lasting purpose.