Chaplain Devo: Casting Bread, Sowing Seed, and Trusting God

Reflections on Ecclesiastes 11:1–6

Ecclesiastes 11 invites us into a posture of faithful action in the middle of uncertainty.

The passage opens with a big, bold charge: “Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.” It’s a call to step forward—to risk, to engage new opportunities, and to do so with wisdom and preparation.

Growth rarely happens without movement.

King Solomon goes on to urge diversification: “Divide your portion to seven, or even to eight, for you do not know what disaster may happen on earth.” We are reminded that the future is unknowable. Wise stewardship spreads risk, avoids putting everything into one basket, and recognizes that while losses may come, thoughtful judgment positions us to gain more than we lose.

At the same time, Scripture is clear about our limits. Rain will fall when clouds are full, and when a tree falls, it lies where it lands. Some things are simply beyond our control. Trying to manage the uncontrollable only leads to anxiety.

That’s why Ecclesiastes warns against paralysis: “Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.” Waiting for perfect conditions often means never acting at all. Life—and obedience—rarely offers ideal circumstances.

Ultimately, we are reminded that God’s ways exceed our understanding. Just as we cannot trace the wind or explain the mystery of life forming in the womb, we cannot fully grasp how God is working in every detail. We know His character, even when His methods remain hidden.

The conclusion here is practical and hopeful—not always the case when reading Ecclesiastes!—sow your seed in the morning, and do not be idle in the evening.

When opportunities arise, we’re called to act. Without sowing, there is no harvest. Faithfulness means showing up, trusting God with the outcome, and doing the work set before us—morning and evening alike.

Ultimately, much of life comes down to trust in God’s timing, provision, and ultimate Goodness. May we trust Him more today.