#soap # Ecclesiastes 04 ## Title: Why Do You Want What You Want? ## Scripture: (Ecclesiastes 4:4) “Then I considered all the skillful work that is done: Surely it is nothing more than competition between one person and another. This also is profitless—like chasing the wind.” (NET) ## Observation: There was once a famous comedian who grew up in an ordinary, middle-class family. Through his talent and hard work, he rose to become one of the biggest names in the industry. He had it all. However, one time he said, “I wish that, for one day, everyone could be rich and famous so they could see that it solves nothing in their lives.” He was saying that so many of us want power, prestige, and more. We want it all. But have we ever thought about whether that is what we actually need to have a full and satisfied soul? Why do you want what you want? There is nothing wrong with wanting things and working hard to get them. It’s just important to figure out why. If it’s for good reasons, go for it. If it is to impress others, matter to others, or fill a hole in your heart… be careful. Don’t live your life for people who don’t know you. Don’t try to fill your heart with material things. Live for God. In Him, you are already significant, secure, and accepted. ## Application: Live for God and not for the praise of others. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for revealing our motives and pointing us in the right direction.