reflection and discussion questions: 

1. Review: Last week we were asked to think of ways we encourage one another during the week.  How did that go? Take a moment to share any ways you were encouraged during this past week. 

2. Take a moment in prayer, welcoming the Spirit's presence. Then read Ecclesiastes 4:1-6, considering any words, phrases, or verses that stand out to you.

3. On Sunday, Phil referred often to the posture of our hearts and hands AND the impact they make.  Discuss the different hand postures in this passage and their impact? Another passage for consideration: Proverbs 14:30. 

4. Verse 4 says, "all toil and all skill in work come from a man's envy of his neighbor." What are some areas you can be prone toward envy? With that, can you think of a time where envy motivated your actions? How did that impact you and/or those around you? 

5. As we consider the posture of our hearts/hands and their impact, why is it good and important for us to "behold, the tears of the oppressed" (4:1)? Why is it also good and important for us to remember "God will bring every deed into judgment" (12:14)?

6. What does it mean to have a"handful of quietness", and how is Jesus both our example and our way?

7. How does Jesus bring quietness and rest to your life? And how does this inspire then the daily work of your hands?

8. Phil mentioned 3 practical ways to respond.  How might God be calling you to respond?  Share and pray for God's mercy and strength for another.

   1. If there's any posture of our hands/hearts that have been envious and harmful, repent and receive Christ's forgiveness. Practice asking/giving forgiveness.

   2. Daily taking 2 minutes to reflect on God's goodness and salvation, resting in Him. (Matthew 11:28-30)

   3. Practicing a weekly Sabbath.   

helpful resources for ecclesiastes:

• Bible Project video on Ecclesiastes. 

• Gear Talk podcast on Ecclesiastes. (A Biblical Theology Podcast with Tom Kelby and Jason Derouchie)