Scripture Reading: Ecclesiastes 10:1
Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour.

Reflection: Apothecary refers to a person skillful in preparing perfumes and medicines. Perfume prepared or made by the apothecary for sale is noted to have a nice fragrance. This fragrance can however be changed into a bad odour by a dead fly. Once a fly falls into the perfume and dies, the perfume begins to emit such a stinking scent that it looses its value. The perfume must therefore be protected from dead flies. The writer of Ecclesiastics likens this scenario to the need for one to protect his reputation of wisdom and honor. This can be done by avoiding acts of foolishness. To be foolish is to demonstrate a lack of good sense and judgment. It is therefore important to depend on the Holy Spirit to maintain a good and godly sense of judgment in life. Remember that just as a few dead flies will make even the best perfume to stink so can a little foolish act ruin your reputation in life. Keep your reputation in life intact!