Ecclesiastes 6:1-6

Satisfaction with Wealth 

2 God gives a man wealth, possessions and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires, but God does not enable him to enjoy them, and a stranger enjoys them instead.

This is meaningless, a grievous evil.

3 A man may have a hundred children and live many years; yet no matter how long he lives, if he cannot enjoy his prosperity and does not receive proper burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he.

4 It comes without meaning, it departs in darkness, and in darkness its name is shrouded.

5 Though it never saw the sun or knew anything, it has more rest than does that man-

6 even if he lives a thousand years twice over but fails to enjoy his prosperity.

Do not all go to the same place?

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This is the Word of the Lord ... It is meant to change the way that we think, and the way that we live.

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Commentary by Bob Pardue

Work for Financial Success but Take Time to Live

Are You Happy?

We live in a materialistic and success-driven world. Americans in particular are considered rich when compared to many other areas of the world. But, with all our prosperity, are we really happy and content? You don't have to be rich to be happy nor do you have to be poor to be miserable.

What Good is Wealth without Happiness?

Solomon is saying that wealth is of absolutely no use to us if we do not take time to enjoy it. The wealthy people who have discovered this fact are healthier, better adjusted individuals. The ones who have not learned this simple principle are doomed to live in misery no matter how many millions they earn (The life of Howard Hughes is a good example).

Enjoy Work - Enjoy Life

So, work if it makes you happy but take some time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. You'll be amazed at how your outlook on life will change. And, your family will thank you for it. d:-)

Don't Leave Out God

In addition to taking time for yourself, take some time to consider God who gave you the talents and means to create your wealth. No matter how much a person accumulates in this life or, no matter how long she lives, she will not enjoy that life without God.

People spend all their time and effort in order to live longer and collect more "stuff" but don't spend the time needed to gain eternal life with God. It only takes one small step to accept Christ and begin your walk with God.

Are you satisfied with just working and buying time on this earth?

Remember, as Solomon said in verse five, we are all going to end up in the grave so the decision is up to you and I as to where we want to spend our time after we die.

The End is Not the End

With God, through the acceptance of Jesus Christ as your Savior, it doesn't have to end with the grave. Jesus conquered death when he died on the cross and rose again.

When you start living this life with the end in mind you will view things from a totally different perspective. Make your choice today and experience true joy in your life. Oh, and enjoy your wealth!

Love in Christ

- Bob

Ecclesiastes 4:1-6 - Oppression