Hill Country Bible Church Dripping Springs Sermons

Often it seems that we do the right things but never observe any difference for the Kingdom of God. Solomon shows us that we must act even when we do not know how God is using us. More times than not, that is the case. Abundantly sharing our time, talents, gifts and treasures is an exercise in faith, acting with courage through Christ. 

Even a little foolishness compromises wisdom. That is why we must guard against its polluting effects. Instead, we persist in pursuing wisdom, valuing it above and beyond material trappings.

Solomon continues to use the certainty of death to inspire a realistic view of life. Life activities, approved by God, should be viewed as gifts from the Giver for our enjoyment. Furthermore, as Christians, we can begin to appreciate their value, in the here and now and as a foretaste of heaven.  

The make-up of God's Kingdom is counterintuitive; meek, humble, and repentent are just a few descriptions of those that enter. The authority is ultimately God's; He makes and keeps all the rules. it is to His glory. Our observed experience with human authority is different. it is corruptible. We judge it's efficacy based on how it serves us. In the end, we trust in His eternal plan, not what we observe in the moment.

Most decisions we face do not neatly reduce to black or white responses. (The ones that do should be obvious.) Instead, we need to choose between bad, good, better, or best. We can have Biblical wisdom that is gained two ways; knowing God’s word and our life experiences. Then we can apply that wisdom to consider our response.

Sinfulness causes our hearts to gravitate toward discontent. We assume that having just a little more will satisfy us. It never does. Finding meaning in life is not done through the constant pursuit of more material things. Instead, we can enjoy life with a heart, given over to Jesus, that is content with what we have.

We must accept our limits and boundaries as created beings. Once we do that, we can enjoy life as a gift from God, not something we master for our personal satisfaction. This includes the way we approach worshiping the Lord.

People recognize that the meaning of life comes from something other than having better jobs, houses, vacations, and such. We want better but better at what? Solomon shows us that compassion, contentment, community, and wisdom are the things that are better than their alternatives. We embrace life for what it is, not what we want it to be.

Solomon continues with the theme that, as temporal beings, time exerts tension in our lives. However, he moves from the finality of live at death to contrast a series of pleasant and distressing times or seasons. We desire to avoid times that are distressing. Rather than trying to control them, Solomon encourages us to experience joy by submitting to God's sovereignty instead.

Solomon’s records his attempts to find significance. They are no different than the things we pursue.  Even at the pinnacle of his earthly success, none of it satisfied. Yet, he begins to give us a glimpse of the way to find enjoyment. Rather than striving for gain, we enjoy life for what it is, a gift from God.