BEYOND VANITY: ANCHORING LIFE IN GOD

There comes a moment in many adult lives when achievement no longer feels as satisfying as it once did. Promotions, bigger houses, and growing bank balances bring joy, but the joy fades faster than expected. 

King Solomon, a man who possessed everything most people spend their lives chasing, pursued pleasure, comfort, and luxury without restraint. He described his tireless pursuit of accomplishment - building houses, vineyards, wealth, and influence (Ecclesiastes 2:4-9). Yet he discovered that such pursuits were  ultimately empty and unable to satisfy his heart.

Ecclesiastes 2:1 (NKJV): “I said in my heart, ‘Come now, I will test you with mirth; therefore enjoy pleasure’; but surely, this also was vanity.”

After carefully evaluating all his accomplishments, King Solomon concluded that they produced no lasting gain. Apart from God, everything he pursued was fleeting and unable to give true meaning or satisfaction in life.

Ecclesiastes 2:11 (NKJV): “… And indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun.”

Today, we see the same pattern in those who pour themselves into work, lavish themselves with holidays, fine dining, and costly indulgences, yet return home feeling restless. Life looks full on the outside, but the heart is left empty. In the pursuit of “a better life,” late nights become routine, only to realise years later that there was no lasting profit. Health is worn down by constant stress, meaningful time and conversations with family are quietly sacrificed, and the achievements gained cannot restore what was lost.

King Solomon’s message is not meant to discourage us, but to redirect our hearts. True meaning is not found in rejecting work or pleasure, but in aligning them with God’s purpose. Our work gains purpose when it is done for Him, and pleasure becomes good when it is received with gratitude and expressed through doing good. As King Solomon reminds us,

Ecclesiastes 3:12 (NKJV): “There is nothing better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives.” 

Our Lord Jesus also reminds us that true fulfillment comes not from accumulation or indulgence, but from investing in what lasts; acts of love, generosity, faith, and obedience to God. This is how we store up treasures in heaven.

Matthew 6:19-21 (NKJV): “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

When our work, responsibilities, and ambitions are anchored in God’s purpose, even ordinary routines take on eternal significance. What was once restless and empty becomes full and meaningful as our hearts align with what truly matters. This alignment reminds us that life’s purpose is not found in accomplishments or pleasures, but in revering God and following His ways. As King Solomon concluded,

Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NKJV): “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.”

So, brethren, let us pause and examine our hearts. Many of the things we chase in life slowly fade, and the achievements we once held tightly eventually pass away. Yet through every season, God remains - constant, faithful, and unchanging. When He becomes the center, the vanity of worldly pursuits loses its grip, our work gains purpose and our lives gain meaning that endures until we stand before Him in Heaven.

Ask Yourself :

1. What does scripture say about the outcome of pursuing pleasure and achievement apart from God?

2. What is the conclusion Solomon gives about the purpose of life?

3. What practical steps today can make your accomplishments meaningful in God’s eyes?

Suggested Answers:

1. Ecclesiastes 2:11 declares that such pursuits are “vanity and grasping for the wind” and bring “no profit under the sun.” 

2. Ecclesiastes 12:13 teaches that the whole purpose of life is to “fear God and keep His commandments.” When God is the focus, our lives gain true meaning, and all other pursuits, apart from Him, are recognised as vanity.

3. You may discuss this with brethren whom you are closer with.