Ecclesiastes chapter 3 verses 12 – 14 (NIV)
I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.
1 Timothy chapter 6 verse 6 (NIV)
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Solomon had materially prospered in addition to having God-given wisdom. He had everything anyone could want, yet in order to be happy, he was certain the best way was to do good to others, and to be satisfied with their lot. This was a gift of God.
How often have we seen people who are discontent with their lot who are unable to settle. As Mick Jagger once put it, “they can’t get no satisfaction.” Yet it is possible to be completely content, and that comes as we draw near to God. I think it’s a tool of the devil himself to make people think that drawing close to God is restrictive and unsatisfying. He causes them to look everywhere but God to be satisfied. But Solomon was right. As Paul told Timothy, Godliness with contentment is great gain. It is indeed a gift of God to be content, and one which I’m very grateful for.
Dear Lord,
Solomon’s wisdom led him to conclude that contentment came from doing good to others and drawing close to You. Help me to follow that advice seeking not to please myself but You. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen