These chapters are about the great things that young people can experience, and Solomon gives advice to the young so they may not miss God’s blessings.
In chapter 11:1-2, the words can be interpreted differently, but both are wise translations. The New Living Translation (NLT) advises, “Send your grain across the seas, and in time, profits will flow back to you. But divide your investments among many places, for you do not know what risks might be ahead.” Time has shown that people who diversify their investments have a greater chance of not being wiped out in an economic downturn. When British ships were originally sent to colonize America, the investors knew there was a great chance they could lose everything so they only invested money that had received from safe investments. Their safe investments were still there in case disaster struck the voyage.
The Living Bible translates these verses a little differently. “Give generously, for your gifts will return to you later. Divide your gifts among many, for in the days ahead you yourself may need much help.” Today Christian singers like the song, “Cast your bread upon the water” that encourages the message of giving.
Solomon goes on in verses 3-6 to encourage young people to work hard and not let cloudy conditions hinder them. “Keep on sowing your seed, for you never know which will grow – perhaps it all will.”
Beginning in verse 9 and continuing through chapter 12, Solomon finally tells us what our purpose in life should be. “Do all you want to; take in everything, but remember that you must account to God for everything you do. . .but remember that youth, with a whole life before it, can make serious mistakes. . .Don’t let the excitement of being young cause you to forget about your Creator. Honor Him in your youth before the evil years come when you’ll no longer enjoy living.” Solomon ends chapter 12 and continues our purpose for living. “Here is my final conclusion: fear God and obey His commandments, for this is the entire duty of man. For God will judge us for everything we do, including every hidden thing, good or bad.”