The Emptiness of Pleasure

This morning we continue in our study through the book of Ecclesiastes as we consider Ecclesiastes 2:1-11. In the text we see the Preacher/Teacher explore the vanity of pleasures. The Preacher considers comedy, wine, possessions, riches, and sexual fulfillment. "And whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I kept my heart from no pleasure, for my heart found pleasure in all my toil, and this was my reward for all my toil" (Ecclesiastes 2:10). The conclusion is the same as the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge, "Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after the wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 2:11).

The end of pleasure is not the vanity of self-indulgence, but to point us toward ultimate satisfaction and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. To properly enjoy the pleasures of this world, we must first be satisfied in Jesus and align our hearts with His righteousness. We can be encouraged from our passage this morning that while a pursuit of self-indulgence and pleasure is "a striving after the wind", a pursuit of Jesus brings eternal satisfaction and everlasting joy in Him.