In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the tragedies of life as described in Ecclesiastes chapter 4. He highlights the oppression and lack of comfort experienced by the oppressed, using the imagery of a yard covered in nettles and a broken stone wall. The preacher warns against slothfulness and apathy, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and diligence. He addresses the issues of competition, jealousy, and envy in the marketplace, urging listeners to handle these problems with wisdom and not to be consumed by vanity. The sermon concludes with a reminder that a life lacking meaning is a grave misfortune, prompting listeners to reflect on their motivations and purpose in life.