Ecclesiastes 2:24—“There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.”
Solomon has just considered the frustration of labour. A man may work wisely and diligently, yet must leave all he has gained to someone who did not labour for it (vv. 18–21). Even his nights may be troubled by anxious thoughts (v. 23). If lasting satisfaction depends on keeping the fruit of our work, disappointment is certain.
What, then, should a man do? Solomon tells him to eat, drink, and enjoy the good in his labour. This is no invitation to careless pleasure. The words “from the hand of God” govern the whole verse. Food, strength to work, and the ability to take pleasure in work are gifts to be received with gratitude.
We often postpone contentment until we finish a difficult task or achieve an imagined success. Yet God gives us daily mercies even amid unfinished work. We can thank Him for a meal, a useful task, and the opportunity to serve others. We can also rest when the day’s work is done, trusting Him with results beyond our control.
Solomon does not promise that every task will be pleasant or every effort rewarded as we hope. He teaches us where to look for joy: not to our labours as our master, but to God as the giver of all good. “For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy” (v. 26). Let us therefore seek to walk before Him in reverence, receive His daily provisions thankfully, and leave the lasting outcome of our labour in His hands.
