- What does the author observe about the heart of the laborer?
- What is “coveting” and how can it influence the purpose of work? What is God’s purpose for work?
- How is laziness (a fool folds his arms) a slow, comfortable path toward self-destruction?
- What does a balanced life (Better one handful with rest than two handfuls with effort) look like for someone that wants to avoid the rat race of life or the lazy life of idleness?
- What are the benefits and disadvantages of a life lived independently?
- What are the benefits and disadvantages of companionship (friendship, familial or marriage)?
- How does verses 13-16 show that wealth and position are no guarantee of success and poverty and past failures are no barriers to achievement?
- What is the key element that was required to be successful in this story about the poor youth and the rich king?
Application:
1. What is my heart motivation when I approach my daily labor (work)?
1. Where might I benefit from one hand full of rest/quietness and one hand full of effort?
2. Read Mark 8:36-37. What is it really costing me in terms of life to get the things that are important to me? How much of the permanent am I sacrificing to get more of what is temporary?
3. What relationships has God brought into my life that have brought good reward and strength? To whom is God calling me to be in companionship with in this season of life?
4. Is there any place in my life where I am wanting to do things independently rather than asking another for help?
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