11 Because sentence hath not been done 'on' an evil work speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of man is full within them to do evil. 12 Though a sinner is doing evil a hundred 'times', and prolonging 'himself' for it, surely also I know that there is good to those fearing God, who fear before Him. 13 And good is not to the wicked, and he doth not prolong days as a shadow, because he is not fearing before God.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:11-13
Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:9-13
(Read Ecclesiastes 8:9-13)
Solomon observed, that many a time one man rules over another to his hurt, and that prosperity hardens them in their wickedness. Sinners herein deceive themselves. Vengeance comes slowly, but it comes surely. A good man's days have some substance; he lives to a good purpose: a wicked man's days are all as a shadow, empty and worthless. Let us pray that we may view eternal things as near, real, and all-important.