14 There is futility which is done on the earth , that is, there are righteous men to whom it happens according to the deeds of the wicked . On the other hand, there are evil men to whom it happens according to the deeds of the righteous . I say that this too is futility .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:14
Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:14-17
(Read Ecclesiastes 8:14-17)
Faith alone can establish the heart in this mixed scene, where the righteous often suffer, and the wicked prosper. Solomon commended joy, and holy security of mind, arising from confidence in God, because a man has no better thing under the sun, though a good man has much better things above the sun, than soberly and thankfully to use the things of this life according to his rank. He would not have us try to give a reason for what God does. But, leaving the Lord to clear up all difficulties in his own time, we may cheerfully enjoy the comforts, and bear up under the trials of life; while peace of conscience and joy in the Holy Ghost will abide in us through all outward changes, and when flesh and heart shall fail.