Ecclesiastes Series
I have seen that every labor and every skill which is done is the result of rivalry between a person and his neighbor. This too is futility and striving after wind. The fool folds his hands and consumes his own flesh. One hand full of rest is better than two fists full of labor and striving after wind. Ecclesiastes 4:4-6 NASB
There are two fools in this text: the one who works his head off trying to make a lot of money and the one who wants money without having to work for it. Both want money and they are envious of one another in the pursuit of it. Envy is such a powerful motivation; it afflicts almost everyone who wants to get rich. But it is “futility and striving after wind,” because money is vaporous. Just like the clouds, sooner or later riches will dissipate.
On the one hand, there are those who work like crazy to lure customers away from their competitors or who try to cheat their customers. Whatever it takes to make a buck. On the other hand, there are those who want to get something for nothing: gamblers and those who freeload off the government or dad and mom. Anything to make money without working.
The right way of life is revealed in Genesis 3. First, God gives a reason for living by declaring salvation for sinners through the Seed of the woman. Next, God tells them how to live out the saved life. Daily life will involve hard labor. For the woman, the fruit of her work will be children. For the man, it will be the fruit of the ground.
Knowing that our true riches are forgiveness, life, and salvation through Jesus Christ, we can face our daily lives without the lust for riches. Rather, “If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” (1 Timothy 6:8 NASB)
O Lord, "Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is my portion." Amen. (Proverbs 30:8 NASB)