Ecclesiastes 2:1-23
Not only was King Solomon wise (1 Kings 3:12); he was also blessed with wealth beyond imagination and given the privilege of building God’s temple. So we might expect he also experienced a deep sense of contentment.
In searching for that fulfillment, Solomon devoted himself to exploring all kinds of things. Ecclesiastes tells us that he indulged in the pleasures of the world, even dabbling in pursuits he recognized as folly to see if there was anything worthwhile in them. But the satisfaction Solomon sought evaded him, and he concluded that self-indulgence was without value.
To feel content, the king tried another avenue: personal achievement. He undertook great things, such as building houses, gardens, and parks for himself and carrying out an extensive irrigation project (Eccl. 2:4-6). The king had everything he could ever need to enjoy life, but in the end, he concluded it was all without meaning.
Solomon possessed the wisdom and resources to accomplish whatever he decided to do. Yet everything he pursued brought no lasting contentment. He concluded that the best course was to obey God (Eccl. 12:13). True enjoyment comes only when we align ourselves with His will.
Bible in One Year: 2 Timothy 1-4
