No Regrets In A Broken World
Ecclesiastes 4:1–12
- Read Ecclesiastes 4:1–3. Solomon sees oppression and concludes it would be better not to have been born. What does this reveal about how heavy evil and injustice can feel in our world?
- When you see injustice or evil in the world—whether in the news, in your community, or in your own life—how do you usually respond—with despair, anger, numbness, or hope?
- God gives us a heads up in passages like this that we should not be surprised when we encounter all kinds of evil. In what ways does knowing this about the world help us?
- Read Ecclesiastes 4:4–8Solomon says many achievements are fueled by envy. Where do you see the temptation to compare yourself to others in your life? (social media, work, parenting, possessions, etc.)
- What would “one handful with tranquility” look like for you right now? Where could you step back from striving and instead practice contentment?
- Read Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 These verses give practical pictures of why “two are better than one.” Which of these images (helping someone up, keeping warm, defending against attack, a cord of three strands) speaks to you most in your current season of life, and why?
- Who in your life helps you up when you fall — and who are you helping up? Knowing the power of community allows us to surprise the hurting with compassion and work to make others’ lives better. What is one intentional way you could invest other people this week?
- Read John 14:16–18 How does knowing Jesus is with you through His Spirit give you comfort when you feel overwhelmed by the brokenness of the world?
- Where in your life right now do you most need to invite Jesus into your brokenness?
