S) "12 The sleep of the working man is pleasant, whether he eats little or much; but the full stomach of the rich man does not allow him to sleep."
Ecclesiastes 5:12 (NASB)
O) This is very similar to the observation of Ecclesiastes 1:18. There is a certain counterintuitive element to this principle. The temptation is to think if some is good, more is better. However, there is a point of diminishing return. In this sense, we can actually see some of God's purpose and design in this, too. We were created for work, not leisure. But we were also created for pleasure, not automatia. God wants s to enjoy our work. At the same time, this verse reveals humanity's sinful ability to pervert a blessing. In Solomon's case, he may have been suffering from a "greener pasture" kind of envy of the working man. The main point, though, is the warning that when abundance becomes indulgence, it quickly becomes a hindrance. There are two main ways this can happen. In a literal sense, an overstuffed stomach can be quite uncomfortable. Heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion, etc., all prevent sleep. Then, there's also a more philosophical angle. That is the issue of existentialism. When a person lacks no material thing, but they only recognize the material reality, and they still find themselves struggling with discontent, then how hopeless they become. What other answer could there be? What have I yet to try? What is the point of searching and trying? Those thoughts will rob their nights of sleep as much as any overeating ever could.
A) This verse reminds me that my contentment (like my joy, peace, and identity), must be found in Christ alone. That is the only way that contentment is sustainable. If I am seeking abundance, I will lose sleep (either from a lack of abundance and striving for it, or because I actually achieve it and it robs me anyway!). If I am seeking contentment in my work directly, then what will I have if work is taken from me? In Christ alone (who certainly calls me to work), I will find contentment and sweet sleep.
A) This verse reminds me that my contentment (like my joy, peace, and identity), must be found in Christ alone. That is the only way that contentment is sustainable. If I am seeking abundance, I will lose sleep (either from a lack of abundance and striving for it, or because I actually achieve it and it robs me anyway!). If I am seeking contentment in my work directly, then what will I have if work is taken from me? In Christ alone (who certainly calls me to work), I will find contentment and sweet sleep.
P) Father, Your goodness and providence are just too far above me, for me to ever really know. You are altogether majestic and mighty. You are great and wondrous. Thank Yiu for keeping me humble, Lord. Thank You for not giving me every material thing I have wanted. Thank Yiu for making me to work, and giving me purpose for my hands. Open my eyes to see Your plan better, both for me as a human and man, and also for me as Your individual son. May I find sweet sleep for myself after an honest day's work. Let me always be found with thanksgiving on my lips. You're a good, good Father. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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