We worked our way through Ecclesiastes 4:3 to 5:7 yesterday evening which, I think, was a tough section to make sense of, but I think we cracked it. It seems to be saying that all relationships are tainted by sin or, more specifically, the desire for success. It leads to oppression (v1-3, which we looked at last week), competition (v4-6), loneliness (v7-8) and even when we become popular, it never lasts (v13-16). In the middle of all this are verse 9 to 12 about the benefits of that rare commodity: Friendship. Thing is it seems to be saying that friendship helps us survive in a harsh and dangerous world. Is that the best we can hope for?
Still, we can always turn to God, right? Well 5:1-7 addresses that and advises not to sacrifice (v1), not to pray (v2-3), not to make vows (v4-6) and don't even dream (v7). Its warning us to be extremely careful with God because he is the ultimate oppressor, the competitor that can never be beaten. Better to keep your mouth shut and stay out of his way.
Hebrews 10:19-25 offered us a better way. Jesus' sacrifice means we can draw near to God confidently without fear (v22). And we can draw near to each other (v24-25).
Well, I thought I'd summarise all that because it kind of took me by surprise, and I'm still getting my head around it.
Meanwhile, Darren led us in a game of pairs which was a nail biting contest of intellect that had me so gripped that when I went to sit down I missed the chair and ended up on the floor trying to think of a viable explanation of why I had meant to do that. I felt a fool, but consoled my pride by winning the game.
Abigail, you missed so much.
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