Verses 1-2
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In the physical life, it is important that we walk uprightly before God. If we practice sin, we will suffer the consequences, which will rob us of the ability to truly enjoy the wealth that we may be given in this life.
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So remember, it's foolish to try to enjoy life's blessings if you are not also living obedient to God, since sin will produce death and suffering—poor health, dysfunctional relationships, strife. These things which extend from sin will take away power to enjoy life, and any wealth you do have will therefore only afflict you, and thus be meaningless.
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Verses 3-9
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A long life is worth nothing without being able to be truly satisfied with God's goodness in this life.
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And satisfaction is a matter of the soul, not the body. Nonetheless, nearly all people—wise or foolish, smart with money or not—labor to be able to eat and gratify their bodies (Proverbs 16:26). However, a full stomach does not satisfy the soul, nor does gratifying any want of the flesh.
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So, do not live to satisfy the endless cravings of the body, or you will never be content. Remember, it is far more joyful to be content with what you have (which is the goodness of God) than to always want something else (verse 9).
Verses 10-12
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God is mightier than we are, so we cannot stop His predetermined will for our lives from coming to pass. Similarly, we cannot stop the vanity of life. No matter how hard we try to give meaning to the physical life, it has no real meaning without knowledge of eternal life.
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Therefore, without the knowledge of God, no one really knows what is good for us. Many things that we perceive as “good” only cause more problems in the end.
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Don't determine what is good or bad for you on the basis of what feels good or what the world says is good. Know what is good for you from what the Word says.
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And the Word says, together with Ecclesiastes, that “godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6-7). Be godly in your actions, and be content with what God gives you. This we know is good.
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