Ecclesiastes 5:19 Commentary and Bible Study

So unusual is enjoyment of earthly possessions and so rare is contentment of mind on earth that it is a cause of wonder when we come across anyone who has discovered this secret. There are so many steps leading up to the enjoyment of simple earthly pleasures that can go wrong – and Solomon has spoken of these failures – that it is a marvel if any actually enjoy life. The inequalities of life may prevent a person ever being lifted above poverty; he may obtain riches only to have the circumstances of his life change and all be taken away again; he may store up much riches in his lifetime only to die and pass everything to another who did nothing to acquire it; he may increase wealth but be denied the ability to enjoy what he has because he is always worrying about obtaining more; he may be so preoccupied with his own earthly security that he equates riches with security and cannot find peace because of worry about losing them; he may grow old and lose the ability to appreciate the sensual enjoyment that earthly riches are capable of delivering. Therefore, when we find someone who is content with what he has on a day to day basis, who does not complain at how life has treated him, who is thankful to the Lord and not anxious about the future, we know it is the gift of God.