Ecclesiastes Part 19

Ecclesiastes 9:9–10 contains some of the most practical instruction in the book. These verses often show up as favorites and are often memorized because of the valuable instruction they contain.

Solomon focuses on two important areas of life: our relationships and our work. Both are gifts from God, and both should be approached with purpose while we have the opportunity.  

"Live joyfully with the wife whom you love all the days of your vain life which He has given you under the sun, all your days of vanity; for that is your portion in life, and in the labor which you perform under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 9:9).

At first glance, Solomon's reference to life as "vain" may sound discouraging. However, throughout Ecclesiastes, the word often carries the sense of temporary, fleeting, or passing. Because life is temporary, Solomon urges us not to neglect the blessings God has already placed before us. One of those blessings is marriage.

The instruction to "live joyfully with the wife whom you love" reflects God's original purpose for marriage. From the beginning, God established marriage as a lifelong relationship intended for companionship, support, and mutual joy: 

"Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24).

In a book that repeatedly highlights life's frustrations and uncertainties, Solomon points to marriage as one of God's gifts that brings stability and meaning. He does not portray marriage merely as an obligation or social institution. Rather, it is a relationship to be enjoyed and valued. Failing to find a good woman had been his personal experience with his vast harem, but he still counseled that joy in marriage was attainable and one of God’s great blessings during this life. As he also wrote in Proverbs 18:22, 

“He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.”

Since our time is limited, we should not take our relationships for granted. Husbands and wives should invest in one another, appreciate one another, and make the most of the time God has given them together.

The phrase "for that is your portion in life" emphasizes that faithful family relationships are part of God's provision. Many people spend their lives chasing wealth, status, or recognition, only to discover that these things provide little lasting satisfaction. Solomon repeatedly points his readers back to the simple blessings God gives each day.

This principle extends beyond marriage. It reminds us to value the people God has placed in our lives and to recognize that relationships are among the most meaningful aspects of our physical existence.

Having addressed family life, Solomon turns to another major part of human experience: work. 

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might..." (Ecclesiastes 9:10).

This statement reflects a recurring biblical theme. God intends human beings to be productive. Work was established before sin entered the world. Adam was given responsibility in the Garden of Eden, demonstrating that meaningful labor is part of God's purpose for mankind.

Solomon's instruction is straightforward. Whatever responsibilities God places before us, we should approach them wholeheartedly.

The phrase "with your might" conveys energy, diligence, and commitment. Solomon is not encouraging frantic busyness. Rather, he is teaching that God's people should be dependable, conscientious, and diligent in their responsibilities.

Whether our work involves employment, family responsibilities, service in the congregation, or personal study and growth, we should pursue it with seriousness and dedication. This principle appears throughout Scripture: 

"And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men" (Colossians 3:23). 

The motivation for diligence is not merely personal success. It is recognizing that our efforts ultimately reflect our relationship with God.

Solomon then explains why diligence is necessary, 

"For there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going" (Ecclesiastes 9:10).

This statement returns to the theme of death that runs throughout the chapter. The grave represents the end of physical activity. Once life is over, the opportunity to perform our daily tasks, fulfill responsibilities, and build character in this age has ended.

Because our opportunities are limited to this life, the present becomes extremely important. Today is the time to grow spiritually. Today is the time to serve. Today is the time to strengthen relationships. Today is the time to fulfill the responsibilities God has entrusted to us.

Ecclesiastes 9:9–10 teaches a balanced and practical approach to life. Solomon does not encourage selfish pleasure, nor does he advocate endless labor for personal gain. Instead, he calls for grateful enjoyment of God's blessings and diligent fulfillment of our responsibilities.

Life is temporary. Relationships are precious. Opportunities are limited. Therefore, we should cherish the people God has given us, perform our work faithfully, and use our time wisely. By doing so, we acknowledge God's gifts, honor His purpose, and prepare for the greater future He has planned through His Kingdom and the resurrection to come.

Wisdom Literature is a course taught at ABC by Dr. Urwiller. Recordings from the 2018–2019 class year are available to listen to on the ABC website.

UYA Team | uya@ucg.org  

United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships, and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.