The gift of Labour...

What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth? I have seen the travail, which GOD hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it. He hath made every thing beautiful in His time: also He hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that GOD maketh from the beginning to the end. I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life. And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. (Ecclesiastes 3:9-13)

After lamenting about the vanity of this life, 'The Preacher' Solomon goes on a litany of contrasts in which he points out the timing of all things is in GOD's hands.  Here he concludes that despite GOD's timing, and despite our best efforts all our hard work is for nought, actually in vain if it is not for the Lord.  If GOD doesn't direct it, and is not the one actually doing the work, all that we do in this life will pass and fade.  We have to think GOD's thoughts after Him, and labor for that which will last.  Only that which we do that has eternal consequences will live on after us, and even into the next life.  We as believers must invest in other people's lives, as there are eternal consequences to our actions.

And if you are not a believer, if you have never put your faith and trust in the saving power of Jesus Christ and His finished work on the Cross on your behalf; everything you do is vanity, it will not satisfy, and it will not get you into a right relationship with GOD.  For that you must repent and receive Him.

Under the sun is the key to understanding Ecclesiastes, for it is a tale of worldly efforts; and Jesus, The Son is the key to understanding eternal life, for He is the Word made flesh.

Trust and obey for He calls you to Himself, today.