Ecclesiastes 5:18 - Behold, that which I have seen to be good and proper is for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy good in all his labor, in which he labors under the sun, all the days of his life which God has given him; for this is his portion.
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What does "Ecclesiastes 5:18" mean?
Ecclesiastes 5:18 expresses a perspective on a good life, emphasizing simple pleasures and contentment with one's work, within the context of living under God's grace. Let's break it down:
"Behold, that which I have seen to be good and proper...": The writer (traditionally believed to be King Solomon) introduces a conclusion he has reached based on his observations and experience. He's offering practical wisdom, not just theory.
"...is for one to eat and to drink...": This emphasizes the importance of enjoying basic needs and pleasures. It's about appreciating the simple gifts of life: food, drink, and the ability to enjoy them. It's not advocating excess or gluttony, but rather acknowledging the goodness of provision.
"...and to enjoy good in all his labor...": This is a key element. It means finding satisfaction and meaning in your work. Not just the end result, but the process itself. It is recognizing the value and worth in the work you do, and enjoying its positive aspects.
"...in which he labors under the sun...": This phrase places everything in the context of earthly life. It acknowledges the limitations and realities of living in a world that is not perfect. It's a reminder that life is finite.
"...all the days of his life which God has given him; for this is his portion.": This underscores that the ability to enjoy these things is a gift from God. "His portion" means this is what God has allotted to him, his share of life. It highlights that contentment and the capacity to find joy in one's work are blessings, not rights.
In essence, the verse advocates for:
Contentment: Being satisfied with the simple gifts of life and not constantly chasing after more.
Finding Joy in Work: Appreciating the purpose and the good aspects of labor, rather than viewing it as a mere burden.
Gratitude: Recognizing that life and its blessings are gifts from God.
Living in the Present: Focusing on the days of your life that God has given you, appreciating the here and now, rather than being consumed by anxieties about the future or regrets about the past.
The verse provides practical wisdom for a fulfilling life, encouraging individuals to cherish the present, find satisfaction in their labor, and express gratitude for the simple blessings bestowed upon them. It's a call to find meaning within the everyday realities of earthly existence, rather than seeking it in fleeting and often unsatisfying pursuits.
Ecclesiastes 5:18 - Behold, that which I have seen to be good and proper is for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy good in all his labor, in which he labors under the sun, all the days of his life which God has given him; for this is his portion.
What does "Ecclesiastes 5:18" mean?
Ecclesiastes 5:18 expresses a perspective on a good life, emphasizing simple pleasures and contentment with one's work, within the context of living under God's grace. Let's break it down:
"Behold, that which I have seen to be good and proper...": The writer (traditionally believed to be King Solomon) introduces a conclusion he has reached based on his observations and experience. He's offering practical wisdom, not just theory.
"...is for one to eat and to drink...": This emphasizes the importance of enjoying basic needs and pleasures. It's about appreciating the simple gifts of life: food, drink, and the ability to enjoy them. It's not advocating excess or gluttony, but rather acknowledging the goodness of provision.
"...and to enjoy good in all his labor...": This is a key element. It means finding satisfaction and meaning in your work. Not just the end result, but the process itself. It is recognizing the value and worth in the work you do, and enjoying its positive aspects.
"...in which he labors under the sun...": This phrase places everything in the context of earthly life. It acknowledges the limitations and realities of living in a world that is not perfect. It's a reminder that life is finite.
"...all the days of his life which God has given him; for this is his portion.": This underscores that the ability to enjoy these things is a gift from God. "His portion" means this is what God has allotted to him, his share of life. It highlights that contentment and the capacity to find joy in one's work are blessings, not rights.
In essence, the verse advocates for:
Contentment: Being satisfied with the simple gifts of life and not constantly chasing after more.
Finding Joy in Work: Appreciating the purpose and the good aspects of labor, rather than viewing it as a mere burden.
Gratitude: Recognizing that life and its blessings are gifts from God.
Living in the Present: Focusing on the days of your life that God has given you, appreciating the here and now, rather than being consumed by anxieties about the future or regrets about the past.
The verse provides practical wisdom for a fulfilling life, encouraging individuals to cherish the present, find satisfaction in their labor, and express gratitude for the simple blessings bestowed upon them. It's a call to find meaning within the everyday realities of earthly existence, rather than seeking it in fleeting and often unsatisfying pursuits.