Add parallel Print Page Options

Why Work So Hard?

Then I thought, “Why do people work so hard?” I saw people try to succeed and be better than other people. They do this because they are jealous. They don’t want other people to have more than they have. This is senseless. It is like trying to catch the wind.[a]

Some people say, “It is foolish to fold your hands and do nothing. If you don’t work, you will starve to death.” Maybe that is true. But I say it is better to be satisfied with the few things you have than to always be struggling to get more.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 4:4 trying to catch the wind Or “It is very troubling to the spirit.” The word for “troubling” can also mean “craving,” and the word for “spirit” can also mean “wind.” Also in verse 16.

Bible Gateway Recommends

ERV Economy Bible--flexible cover, black
ERV Economy Bible--flexible cover, black
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.29
Save: $1.70 (21%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
ERV Paperback Bible  - Slightly Imperfect
ERV Paperback Bible - Slightly Imperfect
Retail: $6.99
Our Price: $4.67
Save: $2.32 (33%)
ERV Duotone Bible, Blue/Grey
ERV Duotone Bible, Blue/Grey
Retail: $18.99
Our Price: $13.99
Save: $5.00 (26%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
ERV Paperback Bible, Case of 28
ERV Paperback Bible, Case of 28
Retail: $195.72
Our Price: $139.72
Save: $56.00 (29%)
ERV Holy Bible--soft leather-look, russet
ERV Holy Bible--soft leather-look, russet
Retail: $18.99
Our Price: $13.99
Save: $5.00 (26%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
Croatian New Testament City Bible ERV--softcover
Croatian New Testament City Bible ERV--softcover
Retail: $19.99
Our Price: $18.49
Save: $1.50 (8%)