As we begin reading the book of Ecclesiastes it’s important to understand who wrote it and what had transpired prior to writing it.
Solomon, near the beginning of his reign as king was offered one request from God in a dream (1 Kings 3). Because he requested wisdom to govern God’s people God decided to bless him with even more. It’s believed Solomon’s wisdom and wealth was greater than anyone’s before and since.
After acquiring peace and wealth Solomon is visited by the Queen of Sheba. He shows her all the Lord has given him and she is amazed by his wisdom. From then on, the Bible says each year Solomon made 666 talents of gold (1 Kings 10). What do we see happens right after? “But King Solomon loved many foreign women, as well as the daughter of Pharaoh: women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians, and Hittites— For it was so, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned his heart after other gods; and his heart was not loyal to the Lord his God, as was the heart of his father David.” I Kings 11:1, 4
Around this spiritual state it’s believed Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes. He writes, “I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and indeed, all is vanity and grasping for the wind.” Ecclesiastes 1:14
In the following verses he says, “I communed with my heart”, and “I set my heart to know”. We know what he did with his heart was give it to things vain in their existence. It only led to misery.
Today, set your heart on thanksgiving. It might not be the day you expected it to be but if you know Jesus you have something to be thankful for. Make sure to tell those around you via text or in person you are thankful for them as well. This day is a blessing as will tomorrow be if we’re given it so let your thanksgiving be known. Search out the Lord and His goodness instead of the world and its pleasures.
“Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher; “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.” Ecclesiastes 1:2
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.