Daily Reading Week 20
Sunday
Ecclesiastes 4
DISCOVER
In this week’s sermon, we learned about being better together. As we worked through Ecclesiastes 4, we saw the byproducts/results of being “together.” What are some ways in your life personally where you have seen these truths come about?
Choose one verse or phrase from Ecclesiastes 4 that stands out to you. It could be something you're intrigued by, something that makes you uncomfortable, something that puzzles you, something that resonates with you, or just something that you want to examine further.
In verses 4-6 Solomon observed the lazy and industrious man. What lesson(s) did he learn from this?
How does this chapter help you understand the biblical perspective on contentment, companionship, and the quest for power?
RESPOND
The Preacher continues to share his observations gleaned during the course of his search for the purpose of life under the sun. Earlier he related the injustice he saw. Now we are told how he considered those who were oppressed with no comforter. In such a state, he concluded the dead were better than the living, and better than both was to never be born.
The Preacher then describes what he saw as the vanity of toil and skillful work, especially when one is alone. While one who does nothing is a fool and consumes his own flesh, it is better to have a little with quietness than a lot with much toil. A grave misfortune is the person with no companion, son, nor brother, who labors endlessly for riches that do not satisfy and does not consider who will receive that for which he deprives himself of much good in life. On the other hand, the Preacher saw great value in friendship. He illustrates the principle of synergy in their work and how they can help one another in times of need.
The chapter closes with an illustration of the vanity of popularity. While a young and wise man who becomes king may be popular at first, with the passing of time he is not appreciated by those who come along later.
Monday
Ecclesiastes 8
DISCOVER
After reading verses 2-5, what kind of attitude are we to have towards those in authority over us?
In verses 10-14 the Preacher struggles with the tension between the apparent flourishing of the wicked and his conviction that in the end the righteous will be blessed and the wicked will not. Do you struggle with this same tension?
According to verse 15, the Preacher commends the person who works hard. In the same sentence he takes an opportunity to challenge the reader to make sure they’re enjoying the life they’ve been given. As you think about your day, week, and month, are you taking the necessary steps to making sure you are finding time to “enjoy” life?
After an intense search of humanity, based on verses 16-17, what conclusion does the Preacher make?
RESPOND
Among the "vanities" in life is living in circumstances over which we have little control. Such as the kind of government ruling the country in which we live. The Preacher observed that evil men are often in positions of power, and offers his counsel for enduring such "vanity."
Wisdom is helpful, capable of softening one's countenance (so one is not overly troubled?). Submitting to governing authorities is important, especially in view of the power wielded by those in authority. There will be times when the wicked rule, bringing misery. Be patient, while judgment against such evil may be delayed it will come in its own time and the wicked will soon be forgotten after their demise. In the meantime, it is best to fear God.
Another "vanity" is how the righteous sometimes suffer while the wicked prosper. The Preacher reiterates his conclusion that it is best to seek to enjoy what good God gives in one's labor under the sun. Even the wisest man is unable to discern all that God is doing, no matter how hard he tries. A lesson similar to the one taught in the book of Job.
Tuesday
Ecclesiastes 9
DISCOVER
If we live according to God’s righteousness and wisdom, and if we worship God rightly, what can we expect in return from God in this world (v 1)?
How do you cope with the random misfortunes that life sometimes presents, as mentioned in verses 11-12?
What are some practical ways to apply the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 9 in everyday living?
RESPOND
The Preacher continues to share counsel gleaned from observations on life made during his search for meaning. He noted that all things come alike to all, it matters not that you are righteous or wicked. One thing that certainly happens to all is death, after which one is soon forgotten and has no share in this life (things done "under the sun"). Should one therefore despair? No, the Preacher again encourages us to live joyfully, especially with the wife of our youth, and to work diligently in what time we have in this life. Once you die, you won't be able to continue your efforts in the grave. This is our portion in life, and God has already accepted our works.
The Preacher also observed that time and chance happens to all, and that evil times come suddenly. The uncertainty of life can be softened with the aid of wisdom, which the Preacher praises as better than strength and the weapons of war. Thus the words of the wise should be heard, even when spoken softly, or coming from a poor man.
Wednesday
Ecclesiastes 10
DISCOVER
The first four verses of this chapter paint a contrast between the wise and the foolish. When you’re faced with a decision (big or small), how do you approach it with a wise mind as opposed to a foolish one?
Think about modern society. Can you identify scenarios where foolish people are elevated and the wise are brought low?
Reflect on a moment in your life where your words brought either wisdom or folly. How would you handle it differently now after studying Ecclesiastes 10?
RESPOND
The Preacher continues to share wisdom that can help endure the many vanities in life. This chapter is filled with proverbial statements, in which he first deplores folly and the affect it can have on one's reputation.
The Preacher also describes how folly is often manifested in government, and in one's life and labors. The land suffers when governed by foolish men, and labor is made even more difficult. Yet wisdom can bring success to one's endeavors, and blessings to the land when found in the conduct of those who lead.
Thursday
Ecclesiastes 11
DISCOVER
Verses 5-6 describe the incomprehensible nature of God. His ways are beyond our ways and His thoughts are much higher than ours. How does this truth give you hope?
In verse 9 the reader is told to enjoy life and do things that your heart desires. However, in the midst of this statement, the Preacher also reminds us that we will give an account to God for our actions. How does this great truth challenge your daily life?
How can the teachings of Ecclesiastes 11 be applied in decision making processes in today’s world?
RESPOND
In this chapter the Preacher begins with encouraging benevolence and diligence as ways to guard against the uncertain future. By casting our bread upon the waters, willing to offer servings to many, and not withholding our hands in the evening, our benevolence may serve us well in the future should evil befall us. Likewise, things may happen beyond our ability to control or comprehend, but diligence in sowing seed and being mindful of the dark days to come can help to prepare us for their coming.
This chapter also introduces counsel from the Preacher designed especially for the young. The young man is encouraged to rejoice, letting his heart cheer him. He is told to walk in the ways of his heart and in the sight of his eyes, yet with the knowledge that God will hold him accountable for all that he does. So remove sorrow (i.e., rejoice!). But also put away evil during the fleeting years of childhood and youth.
Friday
Ecclesiastes 12
DISCOVER
This chapter begins with a challenge to remember God (Creator). Why do you think it’s super important to do this as you grow older in life? What ways do you need to apply this truth?
What blessings can you expect in your life as you come to know the Lord better? How does knowing the facts that God is all-knowing, loving, good, and faithful add benefit to your life?
The Preachers concludes this book with some “bottom line” truths for life (verse 13). Why is this a fitting end to the book? How do these truths give eternal significance to everything?
RESPOND
The final chapter begins with a continuation of advice directed to the young. They are told to remember God in their youth, before difficult days come in which there will be found little pleasure. Such days are described through a series of illustrations that depict the feebleness of old age and eventual death. When the inevitable happens, the body will decay back to dust, and the spirit will return to God who gave it.
The Preacher brings his "sermon" to a close by restating his theme: "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." An epilogue is added that informs the reader of the work the Preacher continued to do after concluding his search for the meaning of life. Because of his wisdom, he still taught the people and sought to set in order many proverbs. He sought to find acceptable and upright words, words of truth. Such words of the wise and scholarly are described as goads and well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd. One is to be admonished by these words, yet be aware that there is no end to the making of many books, and much study is wearisome to the flesh.
Finally, we are told the "grand conclusion" of the whole matter. The Preacher ends his search for meaning by concluding that the whole purpose for man's existence is to fear God and keep His commandments. That is because God will bring into judgment everything we have done.
Saturday
Proverbs 1
DISCOVER
Can you think of a situation in which you resisted God’s instruction? What made you hesitate to accept His guidance?
Why do we need to have a humble heart in order to accept God’s teaching? Are there any areas in your life in which you could be humbled?
Think of a time when you were tempted to sin. What made that sin so appealing to you? If you resisted, what gave you the strength to say no?
RESPOND
Proverbs 1 outlines the four distinct "to" statements, or purpose statements of the book of Proverbs. This section culminates with the identification of the only source of true wisdom, the Lord Himself. The purpose of the book of Proverbs is to recognize wise instruction and apply knowledge wisely. Most importantly, this all begins with a reverent respect—"fear"—of the Lord and the rejection of foolish ways.
In addition, this chapter gives a warning against foolishness and the allure of sinful behavior. Solomon begins this warning by appealing to his children to honor their parents' teaching. As most parents know, it's helpful to outline negative behavior before stating what happens when one engages in it.
Lastly, this passage lists the dire consequences of the behaviors defined in the previous section. This section of Scripture is a famous and important metaphor: the first personification of wisdom, as a woman. Throughout Proverbs Solomon describes wisdom as a beautiful woman shouting out for others to hear. The point of this imagery is that wisdom is not hiding. It is out in the open for all to hear, even though it often goes overlooked.