A Time for Everything

I have always loved Solomon, the writer of Ecclesiastes. He is just so human, so open about his diverse feelings and unabashedly confessional. While he believes in God and in His way, he also sees how humanity and sin have messed up God’s plans. And he is affected by it. When I first discovered Ecclesiastes, I considered it my go-to biblical book whenever I needed to sit in the confusion of life. Do you know what I mean? When things aren’t going all that well and you just need someone to commiserate with? Solomon is that guy for me.

Last September, The Table introduced a Discipleship Map to help us grow as Jesus’ disciples. I was most intrigued by the question, “Where Am I Now?” What about you? Are you . . .

• Exploring? (Do you feel drawn to God, but unsure what or if you believe?)
• Embarking? (Do you have a desire to take some first steps beyond coming to worship on Sunday?)
• Re-orienting? (Have you taken a detour from following Christ and desire to get back on track or are you entering a new season of life that affects your faith journey?)
• Resting? (Do you need healing, encouragement, or restoration?)
• Trail-blazing? (Do you desire to stretched - to allow God to use you in positions of leadership, open to stewarding your gifts, talents and resources in new ways for the kingdom?)

I feel like these are “Ecclesiastes” questions, questions that Solomon wouldn’t be afraid to ask. Just as he understands the need to heal after being torn down (3:3) and the desire to feel a sense of joy after having grieved (3:4), some of us may need rest, while others should try something new. In the first verse of chapter three, Solomon tells us that, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” For those of us searching for God, this may just mean that these are times when we are unsure about life; passionate about serving; confused about God’s plan; tired of searching; excited to explore the Bible. And each and every one of these feelings is okay.
 
What season are you in? CLICK HERE to explore.

Jennifer Boardman serves as Publications Coordinator at CPC

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