We live in a world that worships the "stage". He who has great influence is the one who is listened to. Who has a high position, is followed. In many ways, the loudest voice is often the most righteous. But Ecclesiastes presents a simple, almost forgotten story of a small town besieged by a great king, but saved by the tactics of a commoner, a poor man with wisdom.

This story is not explained in detail, as if it is not important who the characters are or when the events took place. What is important is the lesson. In a seemingly impossible situation, a small town with few inhabitants faced a great power, but there wisdom prevailed. Not military might, not greatness of name, but wisdom born from clarity of thought. But the irony was that the man who possessed that wisdom was a poor man. And as is often the case, his voice was not considered. He had no power, no influence, and therefore he was easily ignored. Ecclesiastes honestly points out this reality: wisdom is better than power, but the wisdom that comes from the little man often goes unheard.

Is this not also a picture of our world? We believe those with big names more easily than the simple voices that may be right. We often judge not by the content of what is said, but by who is speaking. Even in church life, weak voices can be drowned out by those who are more influential. Yet, Ecclesiastes reminds us that the quiet words of the wise are worth more than the shouting of foolish rulers. Wisdom does not always come with a loud voice. It often comes in simplicity, quietness, even from those who are not recognised.

And furthermore, one small mistake can ruin a lot of good things. When pride makes us turn a deaf ear, when prestige makes us refuse to listen, the consequences can be fatal. This fragile life can crumble simply because we ignore the wisdom that is actually nearby.

Bible friends, today we are reminded to always live in humility. Learn to listen, not only to those who are ‘big’, but also to those who are simple. Do not be quick to judge based on who speaks, but pay attention to what is delivered. Because it could be, in the midst of the noise of the world, the most saving voice comes from the "commoner" who is wise.