Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 | An Attitude of Gratitude

Background points

Ecclesiastes chapter 3 is in the Bible to show us that God gives amazing gifts to His children.

James 1:17: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights,

who does not change like shifting shadows.

Matthew 7:11: If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how

much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him.

God expects us to enjoy these gifts with an attitude of gratitude.

Everything has a time: 3:1-8

Main point: God’s natural laws bring order and harmony to our world. Without them life would

be chaotic and confusing and extremely difficult, if not impossible at times.

Message behind the statements in this section: If we cooperate with God, life will not be

meaningless. It will have purpose.

Section summary: Solomon’s earthly view of life is showing him there’s something above: A

God who is in control of time and who balances life’s experiences for His glory.

Everything has a purpose: 3:9-13

Verse 9 asks the question: Is all the labor in life worth it? Solomon answers his own question by

making three points:

1. Our life is a gift from God (3:10). We face hardships and unexplainable situations that can

discourage us and leave us frustrated. Faced with these burdens, we can miss the many gifts God

gives us. But, if we accept life as God’s gift by faith and thank Him for it, then our attitude

toward our hardships and burdens can easily change.

2. Our eternal aspect links us to heaven (3:11). God has a perfect plan to bring about His

purposes, but we cannot begin to comprehend His plan until we enter into eternity with Him.

2 Corinthians 4:18: So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is

temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Spiritual sight allows us to see the revelations of God through His word and experience it in our

lives. We are enlightened to understanding God’s plan and purpose in our lives.

3. We can enjoy life in the present (3:12-13). Solomon encourages us to enjoy God’s gifts as the

fruit of our labor, regardless of how difficult life is for us. Life is passing, but whatever God does

is eternal. When we live for God and His glory, life has meaning, and its burdens are bearable.

We have so much to be grateful for in this life. But the reality is that sometimes constant

demands and worries often leave us feeling defeated rather than thankful. Sometimes it really is astruggle to offer praise and thanks. We may not feel like it. We’re tired. But here’s the reality. We have a choice, every day to give God thanks.

Grow Group Questions:

1. Consider the Scriptures and list some of the gifts that God gives His children.

2. Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and explain its meaning and give possible applications.

3. How would you explain the following statement? If we enjoy God’s gifts and forget the

Gift Giver, then we become an idol worshipper.

4. What are some things in your life that you can be thankful to the Lord for?