This story might well bear the title “Ingratitude is the world’s reward.” One... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

There was a little city with few men in it; and a great king came against it, besieged it, and built great snares around it. Now there was found in it a poor, wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city. Yet no-one remembered that same poor man.
Ecclesiastes 9:14.15.

This story might well bear the title "Ingratitude is the world's reward." One might add a few thoughts about our forgetfulness and then go on with our normal routine. But what does it really mean? Simply this: the town represents man's soul, lonely and defenceless. The great king can be compared to Satan, who is ready to conquer and destroy.

We are all in this situation. If only we would remember that! The inhabitants of the city were aware of the danger, but they saw no possibility of rescue. But there was a single, poor, wise man. Unnoticed by his fellow citizens, he knew how to liberate the city. And his was by no means a unique case. What people consider insignificant and despise often proves to be something great for God. Jesus Christ, God's Son, was belittled by men. Yet for the believer He is "wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification" (1 Corinthians 1:30). He became poor for our sakes, so that we might become rich. He still goes unnoticed today. Most people in this present age show little or no concern for Him. Even Christians often forget Him.

The message here is: take advantage of His offer of salvation by turning to Him with a confession of your guilt and by calling upon Him as Saviour! Then thank Him for saving you and never forget all His benefits!

Today's reading: Genesis 46:1-34 · Psalms 33:1-11