Ecclesiastes 2:1-26

If you are familiar with this book and the struggles of Solomon, the man who has it all, there is much to learn to avoid. All of the things that the flesh tells us should bring us joy are revealed as being empty. He tries wine, women, work and worth. In the end, he does not find joy.

For to the one who pleases Him, God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy… ECCLESIASTES 2:26

The problem is not in the blessings and purpose God gives us, but in the importance we place upon them. It’s not even a question of mere moderation. The problem comes when we desire that these things become the source of joy. When we fall prey to this, even things God gives for good purpose can become hurtful.

Joy comes from pleasing God, not from pleasing me

Understanding the benefits of sexual pleasure are intended by God to enhance a godly marriage allows us to reexamine the whole matter. So many seek to please self and set off on sexual conquests. The pleasure of sin for a season is, as Solomon finally concluded, empty. True joy from God is the fruit of a man and a woman devoted to seeking the pleasure of the other and a marriage devoted to being pleasing to God.

I cannot find joy in a lifestyle contrary to God’s will

Money is not important but it sure is necessary. Productive toil is needed to earn the money needed to live. God knows and teaches us that there is much deeper benefit to honest work than merely bringing home a paycheck. Serving an employer as if I am laboring for God is not only pleasing to God, it is extremely pleasing to your boss. Treating your employees as you would treat Jesus is not only pleasing to God, it produces a productive work environment. Since we must labor and toil, joy can only come when we do what we do in a godly manner.

Earthly treasure is fleeting, spiritual treasure endures

There is a sense that the book of Proverbs is Solomon saying “this is the wisdom from God teaching me how to live a life pleasing to Him”. Contrarily, the book of Ecclesiastes is Solomon saying, “this is what happens when you don’t practice what you preach”. In both cases, Solomon succeeds in proving God right.

Whether we are confronting temptations, despair or destitution, the source of true strength is striving to please God in all things. The promise of God is wisdom, knowledge and joy. Seeking to merely find pleasure for self is striving after the wind. God promises emptiness. In the end, Solomon discovers that when we seek joy, we find sorrow, but when we seek God, we find joy.

Discover … His Joy

Access … His Joy

Share … His Joy