Ecclesiastes 5:18

Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion.

Ecclesiastes 5:18 (KJV)

Context

This verse comes from the book of Ecclesiastes, attributed to King Solomon. In this book, Solomon searches for meaning in life and reflects on the vanity of many earthly pursuits. In the verses just before this one, he speaks about the futility of wealth and possessions, showing that they cannot bring lasting satisfaction. He also describes the anxieties that come with riches. In verse 18, Solomon turns to a positive truth: it is good and fitting to enjoy the fruit of one’s labor.

Meaning

Solomon begins with the words “Behold that which I have seen.” This phrase shows that he is sharing wisdom gained from careful observation and experience. He calls it “good and comely” for a person to eat, to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labor. The word “comely” means fitting or beautiful. These simple activities are part of ordinary human life, and Solomon says they are a gift from God.

The phrase “under the sun” reminds us that Solomon is speaking about life on earth, not about eternity. He is not denying that there is more to life than this world. Rather, he is saying that within our earthly days, God gives us the ability to find satisfaction in work and in daily provisions. This satisfaction is not something we create by ourselves; it is “which God giveth him.“

Solomon also calls this enjoyment “his portion.” A portion is a share or an allotment. Every person has a share that God has assigned. This truth encourages contentment and gratitude. Instead of always striving for more, we can receive what God gives with a thankful heart.

Biblical connections

This teaching agrees with 1 Timothy 6:17, where Paul tells the rich not to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Both passages show that God is the source of every good gift and that enjoyment is His intention for His children.

Application

This verse calls us to receive daily blessings with gratitude. Eating, drinking, and the results of our work are not unimportant details. They are gifts from God. We honor Him when we accept them with thankfulness rather than with greed or complaint.

It also warns against two errors. The first is thinking that pleasure itself is the highest good. The verse does not encourage selfish indulgence. It speaks of enjoying the good of labor, not of escaping work. The second error is refusing to enjoy what God gives, as if self-denial were always more spiritual. Solomon calls such enjoyment “good and comely.“

Reflection

God has given each of us a portion. We can trust that His allotment is wise and good. When we eat our daily bread, we can remember the Giver. When we complete our work, we can thank Him for strength. This simple habit of gratitude turns ordinary life into worship.