Read Ecclesiastes 2:17-26, 4:4-8

1. In 2:17-23, Solomon tells why seeking to find fulfillment through work ultimately leads to a crisis point at which you realize that “living to work” is a meaningless way to live.  What does he say?  Are his points still relevant in our world?

2. In 2:24-26, Solomon says its good to work and achieve things in life.  Put his words into your own words.  How can work both be unsatisfying (vv.17-23) and satisfying (vv.24-26)?  What makes the difference?  (Notice “without Him” in v.25.)

3. In what ways have you seen 4:4 in your life?  How might envy of someone else affect your work life?

4. In 4:5-6, Solomon puts two very different proverbs next to one another, one against laziness (4:5) and one against workaholism (4:6).  How might each one apply to people in our world? What lessons do the proverbs teach you?

5. In 4:7-8, Solomon tells the story of how obsession with work can affect relationships.  What does he say?  How does this apply to you or to someone you know?