Ecclesiastes 2:26

For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good before God. This also is vanity and vexation of spirit.

Ecclesiastes 2:26 (KJV)

Context

Solomon reflects on life lived without God. In the preceding verses, he laments that a man may labor wisely, yet leave everything to someone who did not work for it. This verse closes that thought by showing how God treats two kinds of people.

Meaning

God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to the person who is good in His sight. These are not just mental abilities. They include knowing God and finding joy in daily life and work. The sinner, however, receives “travail,” which means painful toil. He works hard to gather and heap up wealth, but he does not enjoy it. In the end, God may give that wealth to someone who pleases Him. This shows that God is the true owner of all things and directs the results of human labor.

Biblical connections

This verse connects with the wider teaching of Scripture that God blesses those who seek Him. In Ecclesiastes 2:24, Solomon says that enjoying good in one’s labor is “from the hand of God.” Here, he adds that God gives joy to the righteous but frustration to the sinner. The phrase “good in his sight” and “good before God” means being pleasing to God, not earning favor by human merit. It is a matter of the heart and faith.

Application

We should not measure success by wealth or achievements. Instead, we should seek to please God in our daily work. When we do, He can give us joy and purpose even in ordinary tasks. We can trust that God will take care of the results, even if others seem to gain more. Our labor is not wasted when it is done for Him.

Reflection

Solomon calls this “vanity and vexation of spirit.” Without God, even great success feels empty and frustrating. But with God, the same work can bring peace and gladness. This verse invites us to examine our own hearts. Are we living for God’s approval or for earthly gain? True joy comes from being right with Him.