Ecclesiastes 1 and 2 - Part 2 - The Search for Purpose

Ecclesiastes 6 and 7 - Wisdom at a Cost

Wisdom at a Cost Eccl. 7 1.  Trade-off #1 – Wise people will mourn more.  2. Trade-off #2 – Wrong decisions will drive wise people crazy. 3. Trade-off #3 – Wise people will have to yield to wisdom.  About the work of God: 1. God is sovereign. 2. God's ways are paradoxical. 3. God allows man to have free will. 4. God will preserve those who love Him.  Returning to the theme of wisdom, Solomon says: 1. Wisdom will help you, but you will never be perfect. 2. Sometimes it's wise not to know something. 3. Some wisdom will not be gained. 4. Some wisdom should not be gained.  Conclusion #4 - God made humanity morally right, but every human has sinned.

Ecclesiastes 4 and 5 - More Observations from Solomon

More Observations  Eccl 4 and 5 Four more observations  1. Oppression is a certainty. (4:1-3) 2. Both work and laziness can ruin us. (4:4-6) 3. Relationships are beneficial. (4:7-12) 4. Positions of authority are temporary. (4:13-16)  Three more areas vanity can show up. 1. Routine worship (5:1-7) 2. Disconnected position (5:8-9) 3. Unused wealth (5:10-20)  Application: 1. Let's chase things that actually benefit our relationships. 2. Let's fulfill our kingdom responsibilities responsibly. 3. Let's manage relationships more than possessions or position. 4. Let's engage our brains in worship. 5. Let's use our gains intentionally.

Ecclesiastes 3 - Stick to the Plan

Stick to the Plan Eccl 3.  The blessings of living for God 1. God gives us purpose. (10) 2. What God gives us to do is perfect when done at the right time. (11a) 3. God knows what will last. (11b)  Four Perceptions 1. There is nothing better than finding joy in good works. (12) 2. God wants us to enjoy life. (13) 3. Everything God purposes will come about. (14) 4. God will ensure this. (15)  Two Realities 1. Some godly acts have been replaced with wickedness. (16) 2. God will judge everyone for how well they lived according to His plan. (17)  In his depression: 1. Solomon did not recognize humanity's unique nature. (18-20) 2. Solomon could not see the destiny of man. (21) 3. Solomon focused only on his earthly life. (22)  Application 1. Trust God's plan. 2. Try not to focus only on this side of eternity. 3. Live out God's plan as if eternity depends on you.

Ecclesiastes 1 and 2 - Part 2 - The Search for Purpose

The Search for Purpose Eccl. 1:12-2:26  You can find happiness in that new jet ski this summer. But it won't last. You can find happiness in that beach trip, too, but I promise you that joy will evaporate when you're coming home and stuck in traffic. Any new toy, new date, new hobby, or new knowledge will only bring your happiness for so long. The joy of the Lord, however, can last forever.   Solomon is right. Things, worldly knowledge, and wealth will bless you for a little while, but the joy of being in God's presence, living out His will, and living for His pleasure can be a joy for a lifetime and beyond.   How do we apply this to our lives? 1. Recognize God's purpose for you and serve Him. 2. Pursue wisdom and knowledge for the purpose of glorifying and serving God. 3. Prioritize the joy of the Lord's blessing.

Ecclesiastes 1 and 2 - Part 1 - Introduction

Did you know that according to the ADAA, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 1/5 adults and 1/3 teenagers in our country have an anxiety disorder? I read this on their website. "…the repercussions of depression and anxiety extend beyond individuals, significantly impacting businesses and the global economy, with over $1 trillion per year in lost productivity due to depression and anxiety, and it's projected to reach $6 trillion."  You might be thinking, "Why in the world are we studying this? This will be a downer. This doesn't apply to me. I am a believer, and I know my purpose. God is good, life is good, I'm doing good.”  Yes, Christians are more likely to say that than non-Christians. If that is your case, I say, "Praise the Lord!" But there will be seasons when you will not be doing so well. And some of us are already there. The truth in this book is what we need or will need, and your kids will need, and your parents will need. If life is good, store this teaching away for when you need it. If not, I pray this helps you answer some of those tough questions even today. You see, this book applies to everyone who has ever lived. We will read some of the author's experiences, but we will gain from the results he drew from his seemingly full life. I'm telling you right now, this book will answer some of life's most challenging questions that arise when our experiences don't meet our expectations.