Culbertson Family Info

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INTRODUCTION

Have you ever wished for a do-over in life? Imagine if we could reverse the clock, armed with the wisdom we’ve gained through years of experience and faith in God. By examining life through a reversed lens, we can inspire a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to leaving a legacy that honors our Creator.

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, 14I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 3:13-14

In this collection, we will explore biblical wisdom and practical insights from the book of Ecclesiastes that challenge us to live intentionally, making the most of every moment God has given us. We’ll see how understanding God’s divine order can transform our choices and future paths. In this 8-week collection, we will look at:

October 3/6
Reversing Thoughts on Purpose

October 10/13
Reversing Thoughts on Time

October 17/20
Reversing Thoughts on Friendships

October 24/27
Reversing Thoughts on Wealth

October 31/Nov 3
Reversing Thoughts on Wisdom

November 7/10
Reversing Thoughts on Authority

November 14/17
Reversing Thoughts on Life and Death

November 21/24
Reversing Thoughts on God

Text: Ecclesiastes 4 (CSB, Old Testament)

Today’s Takeaway: Life’s too short and too hard to go it alone — invest in meaningful relationships.

Week 3 - Reversing Thoughts on Friendships

I. THE WORLD

Reveal Answer

HUMANITY (vs 1-3)

A. The

of suffering

B. The

of compassion

“Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13bearing with one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive. 14Above all, put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. 15And let the peace of Christ, to which you were also called in one body, rule your hearts. And be thankful.” —Colossians 3:12-15

II. SELFISHNESS

Reveal Answer

RELATIONSHIPS (vs 4-6)

A. The

of competition (v 4)

“For we don’t dare classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. But in measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves to themselves, they lack understanding.” —2 Corinthians 10:12

B. The

of laziness (v 4)

“I went by the field of a slacker and by the vineyard of one lacking sense. 31Thistles had come up everywhere, weeds covered the ground, and the stone wall was ruined. 32I saw, and took it to heart; I looked, and received instruction: 33a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, 34and your poverty will come like a robber, and your need, like a bandit.” —Proverbs 24:30-34

C. The

of contentment (v 6)

D. The

of isolation (vs 7-8)

“One who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound wisdom.” —Proverbs 18:1

III. FRIENDS

Reveal Answer

US STRENGTH (vs 9-12)

A. The

of collaboration (vs 9-11)

B. The

of spiritual community (v 12)

“making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope at your calling— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.” —Ephesians 4:3-6

IV. POPULARITY

Reveal Answer

AWAY (vs 3-16)

A. The

of cultural opinion

B. The value of

relationships

“Let love be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. 10Love one another deeply as brothers and sisters. Take the lead in honoring one another. 11Do not lack diligence in zeal; be fervent in the Spirit; serve the Lord.” —Romans 12:9-11

Life Application:

1. Reveal Answer
   your friendships: Are they drawing you closer to Christ?
   

2. Reveal Answer
   out to someone who might be feeling lonely or isolated.
   

CONCLUSION: What steps do you need to take to have meaningful relationships?

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