How can we prioritize spiritual over material pursuits in daily life? A Look at Ecclesiastes 2:6 “ ‘I built reservoirs to water my groves of flourishing trees.’ ” Solomon’s irrigation canals were an impressive feat—yet they sit in a passage where he confesses that all his gorgeous projects still left him empty (Ecclesiastes 2:11). The verse captures the tension between what dazzles the eyes and what satisfies the soul. Solomon’s Showcase—and His Wake-Up Call • Vineyards, houses, gardens, reservoirs (Ecclesiastes 2:4-6) • Silver, gold, singers, servants (Ecclesiastes 2:7-8) • “Then I considered… and behold, all was vanity” (Ecclesiastes 2:11) Solomon is saying, “I had it all; it wasn’t enough.” Literal history becomes a living caution sign: spectacular accomplishments can still leave a believer spiritually dry. Why Spiritual Priorities Outshine Material Gains • Eternal value: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36) • Divine reward: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33) • Lasting contentment: “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6) Earthly projects benefit briefly; spiritual investments benefit forever. Everyday Practices to Keep the Eternal First 1. Morning re-calibration – Read a short Bible passage (start with a Psalm or a Gospel paragraph). – Ask, “What does this reveal about God? How can I live it out today?” 2. Budget with eternity in mind – Tithe or give before spending (Proverbs 3:9). – Allocate funds for missions or local mercy needs. 3. Digitally declutter – Limit scrolling; open Scripture apps instead. – Replace one entertainment podcast with an audio Bible chapter. 4. Serve someone daily – Text encouragement, deliver a meal, volunteer. – Serving redirects attention from “my stuff” to God’s kingdom (Galatians 5:13). 5. Celebrate unseen victories – Journal answers to prayer, quiet acts of obedience, moments of character growth. – These records remind us that the unseen is often the most significant. Guardrails When Wealth and Work Expand • Keep gratitude lists longer than wish lists. • Schedule Sabbath rest before scheduling overtime. • Invite accountability—let a trusted believer ask how you’re managing money and motives. • Memorize counter-materialism verses (Hebrews 13:5; Psalm 62:10). • Hold possessions loosely: practice periodic generosity sprees—give away clothes, tools, décor you rarely use. Promises That Fuel a Spirit-First Lifestyle • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) • “The world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God remains forever.” (1 John 2:17) • “Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.” (Psalm 126:5) Solomon’s reservoirs remind us: man-made channels eventually dry, but living water never does (John 4:14). Choose the pursuits that flow into eternity. |
    |