Ecclesiastes 9:10
Verse
Context
Enjoy Your Portion in This Life
9Enjoy life with your beloved wife all the days of the fleeting life that God has given you under the sun—all your fleeting days. For this is your portion in life and in your labor under the sun.10Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might, for in Sheol, where you are going, there is no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Whatsoever--namely, in the service of God. This and last verse plainly are the language of Solomon, not of a skeptic, as HOLDEN would explain it. hand, &c.-- (Lev 12:8, Margin; Sa1 10:7, Margin). thy might--diligence (Deu 6:5; Jer 48:10, Margin). no work . . . in the grave-- (Joh 9:4; Rev 14:13). "The soul's play-day is Satan's work-day; the idler the man the busier the tempter" [SOUTH].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do,.... Not anything that is evil, which is near at hand, and easy to be found, and is in the power of men's hands to do, Rom 7:21; for this is forbidden of God, abominable to him, and hurtful to men; but whatsoever is good; so the Targum, "to do good and alms to the poor;'' even all good works in general, which God requires of men, and it is their duty to do; though they are not meritorious of anything at his hands, nor is there justification or salvation by them; yet should be done in obedience to the will of God, in gratitude to him for mercies received, and for his glory; as also for the profit of men, and for our own good; for the evidence of grace, and to preserve our characters from the insults and reproaches of men. Whatever is found written in the book of God should be done; not what is of a ceremonial kind, and now abolished, but everything of a moral nature, and of positive institution, under Gospel times; as all Gospel ordinances, and whatever falls within a man's calling: for every man has a work to do; in every station, as magistrates and subjects; in every relation, as husband and wife, parents and children, masters and servants; in every business of life men are called to; which they should attend, for the good of themselves and families, the relief of the poor, and the support of the interest of religion: and in religious things everyone has his work to do; the minister, in preaching and administering ordinances; the deacon, in taking care of the poor; private Christians, in praying in their closets and families, in hearing the word, making a profession of religion, and attending on ordinances; and, as opportunity serves, should do good to all men, especially to the saints, Gal 6:10; and whatsoever is in the power of their hands, as this phrase signifies, Lev 12:8. Aben Ezra refers it to the delights and pleasures of life, such as before mentioned; which may be allowed, when used in a lawful and moderate manner; do it with thy might; or "strength"; for though men have no might or strength of their own to do good, which is lost by sin; yea, even good men, of themselves, and without Christ, his spirit and grace, can do nothing spiritually good; yet there is strength in him, and to be had from him; and who should be applied to for it, and who gives it, Isa 40:29; the phrase denotes intenseness of spirit, vigour of mind, activity and fervency; doing that which is good, cheerfully and diligently, and not in a negligent careless manner; see Deu 6:5; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest; this, and not then, is our working time; good men at death cease from their labours in the grave, as the night in which no man can "work", Rev 14:13; then the liberal man can no more "devise" liberal ways and means of doing good; his purposes of doing good are broken off; and no more plans can be laid, or designs formed, for the glory of God and the good of fellow creatures: and no more "knowledge" of objects to do good unto; nor any improvement in any kind of knowledge, natural or spiritual: nor "wisdom" and prudence in the management of affairs, to answer some good ends and purposes; nor opportunity of attaining that wisdom by the Scriptures, and by the ministry of the word, which make men wise unto salvation: and now, since every man is going to the grave, his long home, the place appointed for all living, and this, is the way of all flesh; and every step he has taken, and does take, is a step to the grave; therefore it is incumbent on him to do all the good he can in life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:10 to the grave: Hebrew to Sheol. In the Old Testament, Sheol is the abode of the dead. It is not necessarily associated with punishment.
Ecclesiastes 9:10
Enjoy Your Portion in This Life
9Enjoy life with your beloved wife all the days of the fleeting life that God has given you under the sun—all your fleeting days. For this is your portion in life and in your labor under the sun.10Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might, for in Sheol, where you are going, there is no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Self Denial (Reading)
By John Wesley12K31:17Audio BooksPSA 27:14ECC 9:10MAT 5:16LUK 9:23JHN 4:81TI 4:16JAS 1:22In this video, James Christian introduces the John Wesley Sermon series and encourages listeners to engage with classic Christian texts in audiobook form. He emphasizes the importance of practicing the teachings of the word of God daily and without interruption. The sermon focuses on the concept of self-denial, as Jesus instructs his disciples to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow him. James Christian highlights the significance of applying this teaching to one's own life and seeking strength from God to practice it immediately and universally in all circumstances.
The Days of Our Flesh
By Steve Hill2.7K28:35Christian LifeECC 9:10MAT 6:33MAT 16:26JHN 9:4GAL 6:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not wasting time and being motivated to make a difference in the world. He encourages the audience to seek a pastor who will challenge and convict them rather than just entertain them. The speaker shares personal stories of how his own life was transformed by his faith in Jesus and his dedication to hard work. He also highlights the urgency of spreading the message of Christ and calls for the church to rise up and take action in these critical times. The sermon references Ecclesiastes 9:10 and Jesus' words in John 9:4 to emphasize the need to work diligently while there is still time.
(Through the Bible) Ecclesiastes 7-12
By Chuck Smith2.1K1:19:29DEU 17:14ECC 9:5ECC 9:10LUK 16:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering God in one's youth. He highlights that most conversions to Jesus Christ happen during the teenage years and encourages young people to commit their lives to God before the challenges of old age come. The preacher also discusses the idea that life is governed by time and chance, and that there is no purpose or guiding hand in life. He warns against misinterpreting God's patience and long-suffering, as it can lead people to think they can get away with evil actions.
One Lion; Two Lions; No Lion at All
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K42:00Overcoming ExcusesSlothfulnessPRO 22:13ECC 9:10MAT 11:28ROM 12:111CO 15:58PHP 4:13COL 3:232TH 3:10HEB 12:1JAS 4:17C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of slothfulness, using the metaphor of lions to illustrate the excuses people make to avoid taking action, particularly in their spiritual lives. He emphasizes that the slothful man creates imaginary fears, such as lions in the streets, to justify his laziness and procrastination in coming to Christ. Spurgeon warns that delaying one's commitment to God only leads to more difficulties, as the 'lions' multiply with time. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to recognize that there are no real obstacles preventing them from seeking salvation, urging them to act decisively and trust in God's grace.
Thou Knowest
By Bob Jones Sr.1.8K13:23PSA 139:1PRO 4:23ECC 9:10JER 29:11MAT 6:33COL 3:23JAS 4:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of completing the task at hand and not leaving it unfinished. He shares personal experiences of staying committed to evangelistic campaigns until the very end. The preacher also discusses the need to examine our motives when deciding to take on new tasks or opportunities. He warns against using God's will as an excuse for our own desires or to escape from difficult situations. The sermon concludes with the preacher highlighting the difficulty of discerning God's will and the importance of relying on simple principles, such as doing the job at hand.
The Heavenly Race
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K51:29JOB 19:25ECC 9:10ROM 14:41CO 9:24PHP 3:13HEB 4:11HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of running the heavenly race and obtaining the ultimate prize of eternal life in heaven. He compares the race to a life-or-death situation, where the stakes are high and the urgency to run is paramount. The preacher urges the listeners to start well, stay on course, and never stop or turn aside. He reminds them of the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ, who calls them to press forward and receive the crown of life that awaits those who love his appearing.
The Way to Serve God
By Jack Hyles1.4K34:39Serving GodPSA 8:4PRO 4:26ECC 2:11ECC 9:10MAT 6:33ROM 6:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding one's purpose and doing it with passion and dedication. He encourages the audience to identify what their hands should do and to pursue it wholeheartedly. The preacher also emphasizes the need to continue pursuing one's purpose as they grow older, and to approach it as if they have a chance to be young again. Lastly, he challenges the audience to approach their purpose as if they have died and come to life again, emphasizing the urgency and significance of fulfilling their calling. The sermon draws inspiration from the book of Ecclesiastes and encourages the audience to live a life of purpose and service to God.
A Little Folly
By Chuck Smith1.1K25:05FollyPRO 22:6ECC 9:10ECC 10:1ECC 12:1MAT 6:332CO 9:6GAL 6:7In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith continues his verse-by-verse study through the book of Ecclesiastes. He begins by discussing the story of a wise man who saved a city from a powerful enemy through his wisdom. From this story, Pastor Chuck concludes that wisdom is better than weapons of war. However, he also emphasizes the destructive power of sin, stating that one sinner can destroy a lot of good. He ends the sermon by encouraging listeners to give generously and trust in God's provision, and to remember to fear God and serve Him faithfully, especially in their youth.
The Consequences of Preaching the Truth
By Keith Daniel1.1K1:10:29PSA 118:6PSA 119:92PSA 119:165ECC 9:102CO 12:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of enduring through trials and attacks from the enemy, focusing on the need to keep one's eyes on God and find strength in His Word. It highlights the devastating effects of jealousy, defamation, and unjust attacks on preachers and faithful Christians, urging them to rely on God's grace and promises for survival and healing. The sermon draws parallels to historical figures like George Whitefield, Watchman Nee, and Madame Jean Guion, who faced intense persecution but found strength and victory through their faith and devotion to God.
To Die in Christ Is Gain - Tim Conway Interviews Bob Jennings
By Bob Jennings1.1K14:582CH 25:2PSA 90:12ECC 9:10ROM 6:23ROM 14:81CO 10:31PHP 1:21COL 3:231PE 4:101JN 1:9This sermon reflects on the importance of wholehearted devotion to God, using the example of Amaziah who did what was right but not with all his heart. It delves into a conversation about facing mortality, the brevity of life, and the privilege of serving the Lord. The speaker emphasizes the need to live each day for Christ, make every moment count, and ultimately find consolation in loving and serving the Lord wholeheartedly, especially in the face of death.
Being a Christian Writer
By E.A. Johnston96217:25WritingPRO 16:3ECC 9:101CO 10:31COL 3:232TI 2:15JAS 1:51PE 4:10In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience as a Christian writer and offers advice to aspiring writers in the Christian community. He emphasizes the importance of staying positive and reading quality books to learn from other authors. The speaker also encourages writers to strive for precision in their writing, even spending hours on a single sentence if necessary. He shares his own journey of rejection and reminds writers that perseverance is key in this challenging profession. Overall, the message aims to inspire and encourage Christian writers to continue their work and pursue their calling.
(Clip) Useful to the Lord in Winning Souls
By Bob Jennings70406:28PRO 16:3ECC 9:10ISA 6:8MAT 4:191CO 15:58EPH 2:10COL 3:232TI 2:211PE 4:10This sermon emphasizes the privilege and honor of serving the Lord, comparing it to the story of a young boy who felt honored to work for a farmer without expecting payment. It encourages believers to be willing and ready to be sent by God, to be fishers of men, and to steward the grace and gifts given by God. The sermon also highlights the impactful lives of historical figures like William Bramwell and Thomas Collins, who dedicated themselves to being useful to God and saw miraculous conversions through their obedience.
Unreached Peoples: The Tribes of Myanmar Burma the Mon
By Paul Hattaway51000:00PSA 90:17PRO 31:17ECC 9:10COL 3:23This sermon reflects on the industrious nature of a village in Mon State, emphasizing the community's reliance on various industries for sustenance and economic growth. Despite challenges like limited power generation, the villagers engage in trade and production, showcasing their resourcefulness and resilience. The presence of a vibrant village market highlights the diversity of locally produced goods, including unique delicacies like fried crickets. Additionally, the dedication of the Hmong girls practicing a dance number underscores the cultural richness and creativity within the community.
Entire Sanctification or Holiness Obtained in Purgatory
By B.A. Cundiff0ECC 9:10ROM 8:12CO 6:2HEB 9:271JN 1:9B.A. Cundiff refutes the concept of purgatory, emphasizing that the Bible does not mention such a place or state for purification after death. The fourteenth article of faith denounces the Romish doctrine of purgatory as a human invention contrary to the Word of God. Ecclesiastes 9:10 is cited to illustrate that there is no opportunity for purification or change of character after death, highlighting the importance of seeking cleansing and salvation in this life. The sermon stresses the urgency of being cleansed from sin now, as there will be no chance for purification after death.
The Servant's Hands
By T. Austin-Sparks0ConsecrationServiceLEV 8:24ECC 9:10MAT 5:30ACT 20:34ROM 6:19ROM 12:11CO 4:121CO 10:31EPH 4:28COL 3:17COL 3:23T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the hands in spiritual service, illustrating how they symbolize our inner disposition and commitment to God. He draws parallels between the literal and symbolic meanings of hands, highlighting that true spirituality encompasses manual work and daily tasks, as demonstrated by Paul and Jesus. The act of consecrating our hands to the Lord signifies dedicating all our activities to His service, transforming mundane tasks into opportunities for spiritual ministry. Sparks encourages believers to recognize that their hands reflect their inner willingness and spirit of service, urging them to engage in all work as an act of worship. Ultimately, he calls for a life where every action is done for the glory of God.
The Correct Perspective
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PRO 16:3ECC 9:10JHN 4:341CO 10:31COL 3:23Mary Wilder Tileston, preaching on John 4:34, emphasizes the importance of doing the will of God and finishing His work without complaint. She highlights the significance of working diligently and with a focus on God's glory rather than personal gain or pleasure. Tileston addresses the internal struggles and guilt that arise from not aligning one's work with God's purpose, stressing the need for order and a sole aim towards God in all endeavors.
A New Year's Gift!
By Samuel Davies0ECC 9:10ISA 33:14MAT 25:13ROM 13:11EPH 5:14HEB 9:27Samuel Davies preaches about the urgency of awakening out of spiritual sleep, emphasizing the importance of seizing the present time for repentance and devotion to God. He highlights the nearness of salvation and the need for Christians to rouse out of lethargy and engage in the duties of true religion with vigor. Davies warns both sincere Christians and impenitent sinners of the risks of neglecting the present time, urging them to awaken to righteousness and not delay their spiritual growth and preparation for eternity.
The Ant
By Harriet N. Cook0PRO 6:6PRO 10:4PRO 13:4ECC 9:10COL 3:23Harriet N. Cook emphasizes the lesson of diligence and wisdom from Proverbs 6:6, using the example of the ant's hard work and constant activity to shame the sluggard into action. By observing the ants' industrious nature and lack of supervision, the sluggard is encouraged to be diligent in all tasks, recognizing that idleness goes against God's design for everyone, even children. Cook highlights the intricate and skillful work of ants and honey-bees as a testament to God's provision of wisdom and ability in His creation.
The Thrill of the Moment
By Hugh Black0PRO 3:5PRO 17:24ECC 9:10MAT 6:34COL 3:23Hugh Black emphasizes the importance of wisdom and understanding, contrasting it with the foolishness of those who are always seeking something grand in distant places instead of appreciating the opportunities right in front of them. He highlights the tendency to dream about achieving greatness elsewhere, neglecting the present duties and responsibilities. Black challenges the notion that only those with grand aspirations are of superior nature, pointing out that true imagination is found in appreciating the beauty and depth of everyday life. He encourages the audience to find wisdom in understanding and valuing the common experiences and people around them.
Romans 9:12 Your Vocation
By Ernest O'Neill0GEN 1:28JOB 31:15PRO 21:1ECC 9:10MAT 5:3MRK 16:15LUK 22:24JHN 19:10ROM 1:9ROM 9:12Ernest O'Neill delivers a sermon on the importance of understanding God's role in determining our vocation, emphasizing that our job is not our choice but God's, as seen in the example of Jacob and Esau. He encourages listeners to trust in God's plan for their lives, as He has uniquely created each individual with specific abilities and qualities for a particular job. O'Neill highlights the significance of serving God through our work, focusing on bringing order to His world and transmitting Jesus' love and peace to others, rather than seeking approval or status from society.
Just Do It!
By Mary Wilder Tileston02CH 24:5PRO 3:27ECC 9:10COL 3:23JAS 4:17Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the importance of promptly fulfilling our duties and tasks, emphasizing that delaying them only leads to hindrances in our relationship with God. She highlights the blessing and satisfaction that comes from completing tasks promptly, contrasting it with the disturbance and threat of leaving things undone. Tileston encourages immediate action on tasks we may be avoiding, as the only way to overcome them is to face them head-on.
The Voice of the Clock
By James Smith0ECC 9:101TH 4:16JAS 4:141PE 1:24REV 14:13James Smith delivers a powerful sermon reflecting on the brevity of life and the certainty of death, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for eternity. He highlights the significance of using our present life to prepare for the future, focusing on faith in Christ, laboring for God, and spending our lives for the good of others. Smith reminds believers that while life is for work, death is for rest, and encourages them to look forward to the eternal rest and praise in heaven. He concludes with a call to self-reflection on how we employ our time on earth and whether we are ready for the transition to eternity.
Always Abounding in the Work of the Lord
By F.B. Hole0ECC 9:101CO 15:58COL 3:231TH 1:3REV 2:2F.B. Hole emphasizes the importance of engaging in the work of the Lord with faith, love, and hope, highlighting that true service to Christ involves these three elements. He challenges believers to not limit the work of the Lord to just Gospel work but to recognize that each person has a specific calling and service for which they are equipped. Despite challenges, lack of visible results, or discouragement, believers are encouraged to persevere, take up their cross, and continue in their service to the Lord, knowing that their labor is not in vain and will be recognized by the Lord on the resurrection morning.
From the Death of Alexander the Great to the Death of Judas Maccabeus
By Flavius Josephus0PRO 13:16PRO 22:29PRO 24:3PRO 27:12ECC 9:10Flavius Josephus preaches about the wise and courageous actions of Joseph, a man who cleverly managed the farming of taxes in Syria, gained the favor of King Ptolemy, and secured his family's prosperity through shrewd decisions. Joseph's son, Hyrcanus, also displayed remarkable intelligence and resourcefulness at a young age, earning admiration and envy from his siblings. Through their actions, they exemplify the importance of prudence, wisdom, and boldness in navigating challenges and securing success.
The Necessity of Seeking the Saints' Rest
By Richard Baxter0ECC 9:10Richard Baxter preaches about the lack of enthusiasm in seeking the wonderful rest that God offers, noting how even those who profess to believe often neglect heavenly matters for worldly pursuits. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing eternal rest over temporary pleasures and possessions, urging both pastors and laypeople to be diligent in seeking God's kingdom. Baxter challenges listeners to examine their commitment to God and to strive earnestly for salvation, as even the most faithful Christians regret their negligence at death.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Whatsoever--namely, in the service of God. This and last verse plainly are the language of Solomon, not of a skeptic, as HOLDEN would explain it. hand, &c.-- (Lev 12:8, Margin; Sa1 10:7, Margin). thy might--diligence (Deu 6:5; Jer 48:10, Margin). no work . . . in the grave-- (Joh 9:4; Rev 14:13). "The soul's play-day is Satan's work-day; the idler the man the busier the tempter" [SOUTH].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do,.... Not anything that is evil, which is near at hand, and easy to be found, and is in the power of men's hands to do, Rom 7:21; for this is forbidden of God, abominable to him, and hurtful to men; but whatsoever is good; so the Targum, "to do good and alms to the poor;'' even all good works in general, which God requires of men, and it is their duty to do; though they are not meritorious of anything at his hands, nor is there justification or salvation by them; yet should be done in obedience to the will of God, in gratitude to him for mercies received, and for his glory; as also for the profit of men, and for our own good; for the evidence of grace, and to preserve our characters from the insults and reproaches of men. Whatever is found written in the book of God should be done; not what is of a ceremonial kind, and now abolished, but everything of a moral nature, and of positive institution, under Gospel times; as all Gospel ordinances, and whatever falls within a man's calling: for every man has a work to do; in every station, as magistrates and subjects; in every relation, as husband and wife, parents and children, masters and servants; in every business of life men are called to; which they should attend, for the good of themselves and families, the relief of the poor, and the support of the interest of religion: and in religious things everyone has his work to do; the minister, in preaching and administering ordinances; the deacon, in taking care of the poor; private Christians, in praying in their closets and families, in hearing the word, making a profession of religion, and attending on ordinances; and, as opportunity serves, should do good to all men, especially to the saints, Gal 6:10; and whatsoever is in the power of their hands, as this phrase signifies, Lev 12:8. Aben Ezra refers it to the delights and pleasures of life, such as before mentioned; which may be allowed, when used in a lawful and moderate manner; do it with thy might; or "strength"; for though men have no might or strength of their own to do good, which is lost by sin; yea, even good men, of themselves, and without Christ, his spirit and grace, can do nothing spiritually good; yet there is strength in him, and to be had from him; and who should be applied to for it, and who gives it, Isa 40:29; the phrase denotes intenseness of spirit, vigour of mind, activity and fervency; doing that which is good, cheerfully and diligently, and not in a negligent careless manner; see Deu 6:5; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest; this, and not then, is our working time; good men at death cease from their labours in the grave, as the night in which no man can "work", Rev 14:13; then the liberal man can no more "devise" liberal ways and means of doing good; his purposes of doing good are broken off; and no more plans can be laid, or designs formed, for the glory of God and the good of fellow creatures: and no more "knowledge" of objects to do good unto; nor any improvement in any kind of knowledge, natural or spiritual: nor "wisdom" and prudence in the management of affairs, to answer some good ends and purposes; nor opportunity of attaining that wisdom by the Scriptures, and by the ministry of the word, which make men wise unto salvation: and now, since every man is going to the grave, his long home, the place appointed for all living, and this, is the way of all flesh; and every step he has taken, and does take, is a step to the grave; therefore it is incumbent on him to do all the good he can in life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:10 to the grave: Hebrew to Sheol. In the Old Testament, Sheol is the abode of the dead. It is not necessarily associated with punishment.