I said of partying, “It is folly,” and of self-indulgent pleasure, “It accomplishes nothing!”

He told them what Micah had done for him, saying, “He hired me and I became his priest.”

I have examined all this by wisdom; I said, “I am determined to comprehend this” – but it was beyond my grasp.

This is what I also observed about wisdom on earth, and it is a great burden to me:

He said to me, “This chamber which faces south is for the priests who keep charge of the temple,

If your sons keep my covenant and the rules I teach them, their sons will also sit on your throne forever.”

There is nothing better for people than to eat and drink, and to find enjoyment in their work. I also perceived that this ability to find enjoyment comes from God.

This is another misfortune: Just as he came, so will he go. What did he gain from toiling for the wind?

David said to the messenger, “Tell Joab, ‘Don’t let this thing upset you. There is no way to anticipate whom the sword will cut down. Press the battle against the city and conquer it.’ Encourage him with these words.”

But the Lord had told Ahijah, “Look, Jeroboam’s wife is coming to find out from you what will happen to her son, for he is sick. Tell her so-and-so. When she comes, she will be in a disguise.”

Then Elisha said to them, “This is not the right road or city. Follow me, and I will lead you to the man you’re looking for.” He led them to Samaria.

To every man whom God has given wealth, and possessions, he has also given him the ability to eat from them, to receive his reward and to find enjoyment in his toil; these things are the gift of God.