The book of Ecclesiastes is considered Solomon's benediction; written at the end of his tumultuous life. It represents a solemn reflection on the lessons he learned the hard way, especially ... the pursuit of things that have no eternal significance is meaningless.
I have seen all the works done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity, a futile grasping and chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 1:14
He had everything he could possibly need for a lifetime of success ... power, position, prosperity, and great wisdom. Yet, despite those gifts, he drifted away from the God of his father David.
Solomon learned too late that seeking purpose through what this world offers is nothing more than 'vainglory' ... Then I considered all which my hands had done and labored to do, and behold, all was vanity and chasing after the wind and there was no profit under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 2:11)
His regal life of opulence, his foolish disobedience, and his subsequent wisdom are summed up in Solomon's final words ... Having heard everything, I have reached this conclusion: Fear God and keep his commandments, because this is the whole duty of man. (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
The revelation that came to him at the end of his life is important to our walk of faith as well. The things we pour our life into on earth (hard work, relationships, and personal pleasure) ... won’t last.
In the end, it will all evaporate like some meaningless vapor.
Therefore ... Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-21)
We cannot hang on to the rewards of this world any more than we can 'grasp the wind'.
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