reflection and discussion questions: 

1. Review: Last week, among many things, we were challenged to guard your steps when you go to the house of God, to draw near to listen, and to let your words be few (Ecc 5:1-3). Describe how this might've shaped your approach to corporate worship this past Sunday? How can we continue to keep this in mind going forward? 

2. Take a moment in prayer, welcoming the Spirit's presence. Then read Ecclesiastes 5:8-20, focusing especially on the Preacher's contrasting pictures of a life focused on wealth and goods versus a life focused on God. 

3. On Sunday, Phil shared of the incredibly wealthy American businessman, John D Rockefeller, who once was famously asked, "how much money is enough?" To which he replied, "just a little bit more." In this passage, the Preacher describes this sort of vain pursuit.  Where have you seen this play out in your own life, whether with money or some other thing? What was/is its impact on you (thoughts, emotions, even rest)? 

4. Phil said"the reason the things of this world often become so big to us is because we simply forget just how much greater Jesus is." We forget that He alone is our chosen portion and lot, and He is more than enough. Silently read Ephesians 1:3-14, and quietly take note of (even underline!) all that we have been given in Jesus.  Then take a moment and give thanks to God together and share how much Jesus has done for you. 

5.  How does focusing on Jesus enable us "to accept our lot and rejoice in our toil as a gift of God?" (v19) How does it affect our view and handling of our days/things?

6. Phil mentioned three practices that can help us. Discuss each and if there's one in particular God is calling you to begin or continue. The first was gratitude.  How can practicing gratitude regularly give God the room to "occupy our hearts with joy" (v20)? 

7. The second was generosity.  How can practicing generosity regularly give God the room to "occupy our hearts with joy" (v20)? 

8. The last was prayer. Phil mentioned two specific prayers from Scripture: the Lord's prayer in Matthew 6, and Paul's prayer for the church in Ephesians 1. How can practicing prayer regularly give God the room to "occupy our hearts with joy" (v20)?

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Extra Reading​

• ​Psalm 16:4-9

• Psalm 73:23-26