https://esv.literalword.com/?q=eccl+4%3B+romans+11
Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Wednesday, 26 April 2023:
Ecclesiastes 4:4 — Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.
What motivates you to do what you do? Would you still do all that you do if you got no credit for it or if someone else got the credit for your work?
Ecclesiastes 4:8 – … one person… has no other, either son or brother, yet there is no end to all his toil, and his eyes are never satisfied with riches, so that he never asks, ‘For whom am I toiling and depriving myself of pleasure?’ This also is vanity and an unhappy business.
Many people try to find life meaning and fulfillment through their work, but there is nothing that can fill the God-sized hole in a person’s heart but God. Work is not your goal; unity with Christ is your life goal. Work resources loving deeds.
Ecclesiastes 4:10-12 – For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
God never intended for a person to go it alone.
Romans 11:1-10 — I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means!
Here is a message from Dr. R.C. Sproul on Romans 11:1-10 — https://www.ligonier.org/learn/sermons/israels-rejection-not-total
“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 26 April 2023: Today, practice contentment and gratitude before the LORD. Trust Him with your circumstances and future, and enjoy Him and His many blessings. Re-read Philippians 4:4-8 and practice the habits Paul offers for contentment.
Defenders Bible Reading Plan 