“Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed quickly, therefore the hearts of the sons of men among them are given fully to do evil” (Ecclesiastes 8:11). Parents normally prefer to discipline their children immediately. This teaches a child the principle of consequence. Yet, God chooses to allow the sinner to go unpunished. By doing this, Solomon noted that men are more likely to sin again and to sin more often. This being the case, why does God work this way?
Peter said, “God is patient, not wanting any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). Paul noted that “God desires all men to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:4). We are fortunate that God doesn’t immediately punish. If He did, we would not have the time to repent. Neither would we have the time to serve Him. The fact is, the “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).
Solomon noted that most men, when given more time, are simply given more opportunity to sin. However, for those who have a heart for God, time is a gift. With that time, necessary corrections can be made (Romans 2:4). Yet, know this: “it will be well for those who fear God” (Ecclesiastes 8:12), but “it will not be well for the evil man“ (Ecclesiastes 8:13).
