I chose to study the book of Ecclesiastes this month because of someone I crossed paths with at my part-time job with one night. At the time, he was a resident at my facility, which is an Assisted Living for senior citizens. I noticed he was drunk as usual, as he was an alcoholic. However, he noticed I was reading my Bible. To my surprise, he proceeded to tell me his favorite book in the bible—Ecclesiastes. He described Ecclesiastes as “chasing the wind.” He said this book reminded him of himself. Because he was known as a “drunk” I assumed he’d never read the bible or even believed in it. This thought convicted me to stop judging people from their outward appearances and their current circumstances. As I dive into studying Ecclesiastes, I think of him and dedicate this challenge to him. This is my first time reading Ecclesiastes and I’ll always think of our encounter. For the sake of his privacy, I’ll call him “friend”
to Friend:
If ever you read this, thank you for sharing your favorite book with me. I hope you are doing well in life. I pray God’s spirit follows you and fulfills you. I pray His comfort leads you and protects you. Maybe you remember this conversation or maybe you don’t. But, I want you to know, I’ll never forget you sharing your favorite book in the Bible with me. I’ll always remember the lesson (to stop judging) our encounter reminded me of. May God bless your story; and may your story bring Him Glory.
Below, you will find the reading plan for Ecclesiastes. This plan doesn’t start until Saturday, February 9th, 2025 and will be for 20 days. However, this plan will work on any day you decide to start and can consist of any 20 days you choose.
Importance of the Book of Ecclesiastes:
The book of Ecclesiastes is a great book that teaches pain is universal. No matter what part of the world you are in, the color of your skin, or your title, pain finds us all. Everyone at some point in their life will experience situations that leave them in internal pain. Whether it is a broken heart, grief from a loss, or a shattered dream. Many of us try to do things our way instead of seeking God’s way. In the book of Ecclesiastes, The Teacher (King David’s son) shares his own experiences dealing with disappointment as he tried to find fulfillment apart from God. The book of Ecclesiastes teaches the significance of anything apart from God is useless. After trying life his way for so long, eventually The Teacher realizes, hope in worldly pursuits will get you no where. But, living to glorify God is the only meaningful way to live.
Prayer for this Challenge:
Dear Father,
I thank you for Your word. I thank You that I can turn to your word for any problem I face today. Lord, I pray that you would open my eyes to your teachings. May I study to know You deeper. May Your word transform me. When I’m unsure or confused about what I’m reading, may you make it clear to me. May I spread the good news and live by it. As I read, may I apply The Word to my personal life. May I think of your Word in all that I do.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection Questions:
What key words stood out to me in this chapter?
How does this chapter relate to my life’s circumstances currently?
How can I apply this chapter to my life?
How does this chapter inspire greater gratitude, humility, and/or joy in Christ?
How does this passage relate to the world today?
How can my attitude/actions improve based on truths I learned today?
How do the truths of this text shape the way I view God?
How do the truths of this text shape the way I view myself?
How do the truths of this text shape the way I view my present circumstances?
How can I apply this chapter to my prayers?
How could I explain this chapter to someone in 6 words or less?
What did I learn?
Reflection questions to ask myself:
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