Useful Bible Studies > Ecclesiastes Commentary > chapter 2

Why do our feelings of satisfaction not last?

Ecclesiastes 2:9-11

What Solomon saw with his eyes, he desired in his heart. When he satisfied his desire, he felt a sense of pride. So Solomon thought that he was carrying out his work well. He was achieving the things that he wanted to do. His work gave him a feeling of satisfaction. And therefore, his work seemed right and good to him.

When Solomon completed each task, he desired something else. So his work began again. And it seemed that his work would never end. He even wanted things that nobody had ever seen (2 Chronicles 9:17-19). Solomon had to work much harder to obtain those things, but the feeling of satisfaction seemed greater.

Only afterwards did Solomon realise that all this work had no useful purpose. That feeling of satisfaction was the only reward for all his hard work. And that feeling did not even last.

Few people have such great wealth, but Solomon’s experiences are not unusual. People have similar experiences whenever they allow their desires to rule their lives. John wrote about such desires in 1 John 2:16-17. He warned that the world and its desires would not last. These desires come from the world, and not from God. So, it is wrong to follow those desires. Instead, people should do what God wants them to do. If people do that, then they will live always. And that is a much better way to live.

Next part: How does a person benefit if he is wise? (Ecclesiastes 2:12-16)

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© 2019, Keith Simons.