The Search for Meaning
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 (NRSV)
There has been a considerable amount of research on happiness that sheds light on what truly gives us joy and contentment in our lives—and it’s not what you’d think. 10% of our happiness comes from external circumstances—money, health, friends, good looks, education, home, climate, gender, race, etc. Surprisingly, changing your external circumstances won’t make you happier, at least in the long run. 50% of your happiness is based upon genetics. Some of us are just naturally chipper and optimistic and easy to work with, while others are wired to be more serious, cynical, or emotionally complex. But 40% of our sense of contentment and purpose is found in our attitude and our actions. What studies have revealed about life contentment line up quite nicely with what the Scriptures teach about how we’re to live our lives: using trials for growth opportunities, cultivating hope in the midst of uncertainty, engaging the present, practicing forgiveness, being generous, tending relationships, expressing gratitude, helping others, caring for our bodies, caring for our souls. So this week we’ll take a closer look at how Ecclesiastes, King Solomon, and the Living God can help us find and make more meaning in our lives, no matter what season we find ourselves in.
October 10, 2021 – Online Service Bulletin and Bible Study
Sermon Art: “To Everything There is a Season” by Becca Cahan
All of our sermons are available in our Library of Sermons.
Other Sermons In This Series
Delight in Beauty
October 17, 2021
A Longing for Justice
October 03, 2021
A Thirst for Spirituality
September 19, 2021