Why You’re Striving But Never Satisfied | Ecclesiastes 5:19-20

You work hard. You push forward. You strive for more. But when was the last time you actually enjoyed what God has already given you?

Welcome to The Daily. We go through the bible verse-by-verse, chapter-by-chapter, every single day.

Our text today is Ecclesiastes 5:19-20.

Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God. For he will not much remember the days of his life because God keeps him occupied with joy in his heart. — Ecclesiastes 5:19-20

The Real Treasure
We spend so much of our lives striving—chasing success, accumulating possessions, and seeking the next big thing. But Solomon, a man who literally had everything, tells us that the real gift isn’t the wealth itself. It’s the ability to enjoy it. To slow down and truly enjoy it. And that joy? That contentment? It’s not something you have earned from hard work alone—it’s a gift from God.

Enjoying What God Provides
Notice again that Solomon doesn’t condemn wealth, possessions, or hard work. He acknowledges them as blessings from God. But they only become meaningful when we take the time to enjoy them. That power doesn’t come from the money itself—it comes from God. God gives us the ability to find joy in our work, to accept our place in life, and the opportunity to be present in the moment.

The Secret to a Joy-Filled Life
But verse 20 contains a powerful insight: The person who lives with God-given contentment doesn’t dwell on the hardships of life. Why? Because God fills his heart with joy. He’s not stuck in the past, weighed down by regrets. He’s not obsessed with an uncertain future. He’s fully engaged in the present because his joy isn’t rooted in circumstances—it’s anchored in God.

A Challenge for Today
Are you constantly chasing more, or are you enjoying what God has already given? Are you restless, or do you have peace in your work and daily life? True joy isn’t found in what we own—it’s found in knowing the One who gives everything. Stop and enjoy him and his blessing to you today.

#JoyInChrist, #GodsBlessings, #Contentment

ASK THIS:
What are some gifts from God that you’ve taken for granted?
How can you practice contentment in your daily life today?
What is one way you can slow down and enjoy what God has provided?
How does anchoring your joy in God change your perspective on success?
DO THIS:
Pause today and thank God for at least three blessings you already have—then take time to truly enjoy them.

PRAY THIS:
Lord, help me to recognize and enjoy the blessings You have already given me instead of constantly chasing more. Fill my heart with joy that comes from You, not from my circumstances. Amen.

PLAY THIS:
I'll Give Thanks.