SCRIPTURE: ECCLESIASTES 4
MEMORY VERSES:
“Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.” (Ecclesiastes 4:6)
“Two are better than one; because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)_
“Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take warning.” (Ecclesiastes 4:13)
OPPRESSION, TOIL FRIENDLESSNESS (vs. 1-12)
Solomon saw adversity and inequality in life. The oppressor has power but the oppressed has no comforter. He also saw that those who labored with achievement were envied by their neighbors. He emphasized that no one can be independent. Everyone needs a friend to help him in times of danger and a friend to encourage him in times of solitude.
ADVANCEMENT IS MEANINGLESS (vs. 13-16)
Advancement in getting to the top is meaningless. People who were once recognized were being abandoned at the the end. This is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
THOUGHTS:
There are two extremes of people with regards to work. Some people are lazy while others are workaholic. The lazy person idles himself because he sees the futility of pursuing success. The workaholic desires to become rich and popular in order to stay ahead of others by neglecting his health. Both extremes are foolish and irresponsible. The best way is to work hard with moderation. Take time to enjoy the other gifts God has given and thank Him for giving you the rewards.
Life is designed for companionship and intimacy. However, some people prefer isolation because they cannot trust anyone. Our purpose in life is to serve God and others. Do not isolate yourself. Seek companions and be a team member.
Many seek advancement to gain position, popularity and prestige. But those are poor goals for life’s work because they are shadow without substance. It is better to seek God’s approval because his love never changes.