Sermon Discussion

Sermon: Ecclesiastes – The Desert

Text: Ecclesiastes 5:1-7

Introduction

For many Christians, there is nothing worse than experiencing “the desert” in your spiritual life. It is a time when you feel God is most distant and that nothing you do or not do really matters. The sins of the past seem to haunt the doorsteps of your life. In this message, Pastor Charlton offers some practical approaches in guarding yourself in these times. These including guarding your steps, listen to God, authentic prayer, and do what God has called you to do in your life.

Discussion Questions

1. Describe an experience when you got lost as a child. What happened? How were you found?
2. Read Eccl. 5:1. What does it mean to “guard your steps”? How do you do it practically?
3. What are the difficulties or excuses that we use not to listen to God?
4. What is authentic prayer? Why is it important to have authenticity in our prayers?
5. Consider your spiritual life. What is one thing that you wish you could change or improve about it? What are some ways the group can help you make this a reality?

Moving Forward

In Eccl. 5:7 says that “much dreaming and many words are meaningless.” Many times in church in small groups we come together and talk about our good intentions. However, as a community, let us find practical ways to spur each other on in living these truths. It will take a lot of commitment from not only the individual but also the community to encourage each person to apply these truths. Honestly, many of these principles are extremely difficult to follow during tough times. However, with an authentic and loving community that rallies around each other, we are able to live out fully God’s intentions for our lives.

Meditate

Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore fear God.  – Eccl. 5:7