Ecclesiastes 5 The Preacher has made his argument.. that life is short.. that there is nothing new under the sun.. that much of what we call essential in this life is really vanity and "striving after wind".  Two exceptions... our work.. if we are able to just enjoy it as a gift from God.. and our relationships.. for "two are better than one.. "   In this chapter the Preacher delivers a very wise message.. 

"Guard your steps as you go to the house of God.. "   The Preacher teaches that listening is much better than talking when it comes to worshiping God. "Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God."  Fools use many words and offer foolish sacrifices. They make vows they do not keep.  "Do not let your speech cause you to sin and do not say in the presence of the messenger of God that it is a mistake.."  

"Rather, fear God.."    The Preacher tells us "If you see oppression of the poor and denial of justice and righteousness in the province, do not be shocked at the sight".. there is corruption in humans who do foolish things and speak foolish words..  James wrote, " Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father.. to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." (James 1:27)  In a way, the Preacher is warning us of the same thing... "For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few." 

In verses 10-20 the Preacher compares the life of the rich man and the life of a "working man".  The rich man loves his money, but "will not be satisfied with money.. "  His greed will keep him awake at night.  The working man.. on the other hand.. can sleep at night. 

The rich man hoards his riches, "to his hurt".  He may lose his investments. He may not leave anything to his sons.  There is no advantage to riches when you die.. "As he came naked from his mother's womb, so will he return as he came. He will take nothing from the fruit of his labor that he can carry in his hand."  He has lived in "darkness with great vexation, sickness and anger..."  For nothing. 

But, this does not have to be this way, the Preacher tells us.. "Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting; to eat, to drink and enjoy oneself in all one's labor in which he toils under the sun during the few years of his life which God has given him; for this is his reward. Furthermore, as for every man to whom God has given riches and wealth, He has also empowered him to eat from them and to receive his reward and rejoice in his labor; this is the gift of God." 

A life that is not empty and vain.. is one that is lived in the fear of the Lord.. with gratitude for every day one can work and enjoy the fact that he can put food on the table and provide for his family. A life where relationships.. with God and with others.. brings meaning and purpose and blessing. Whether we are blessed with riches or not.. doesn't matter at all.  "For this reason I say to you, do not be anxious for your life, as to what you shall eat, or what you shall drink.." Jesus taught.. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself..." ( Matthew 6:25-34) 

Father in heaven, blessed be Your name in all the earth!  We are reminded again through this Word that life without You is nothing.. worthless.. vain.  We do not want to live that way and yet the pull from the world is so strong. Thank You that Jesus has overcome the world and nothing is able to snatch us from His hands! May we have pure hearts.. to worship You in spirit and in truth.  May we be always grateful for and generous with every gift you have given us. May we leave behind the anxiety of the world's way of living and rest in the grace that You provide.  May we know.. with more and more confidence and certainty.. that You are on the throne and that You see us and know our every need.. that Your good plan is to take everything and work it together for our good.. that we might be conformed into the image of Christ Jesus our Lord.  Let Your will be done! Amen.