The book of Ecclesiastes was written by Solomon, who God allowed to be the smartest person ever to live. (1 Kings 3:12) In Ecclesiastes, Solomon writes about his search for meaning. He goes through a methodical process of experiencing and considering many of the excesses of life, pleasure, drinking, folly, wisdom, wealth, and possessions. Solomon determines that all this is meaningless. He concludes in Ecclesiastes 3:12,13 that, “there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.” and in 5:18, he says, “Well, one thing, at least, is good: It is for a man to eat well, drink a good glass of wine, accept his position in life, and enjoy his work whatever his job may be, for however long the Lord may let him live.” NLT

So the smartest, and wealthiest man of his time, with access to every opportunity, concludes that satisfaction in life comes from being thankful for the gifts God has given us, and enjoying our work and what it provides us; More will not make us happier or more satisfied.

Dear Lord, help us to be satisfied and content with what you have given us, realizing that if we are not happy and thankful for what we have today, having more will not make us happy. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.