Ecclesiastes 5:18

I have seen. In vs. 12-17 Solomon has set forth vividly the folly of amassing wealth for its own sake. Now, from the background of his own experience, he observes that wealth is of value only as it is put to work, as it contributes to the needs and joys of life.

Comely. That is, “fitting” or “appropriate.”

Which God giveth him. True happiness and serenity of mind come of through right relations with God, through the realization that His hand is over all for good (see Rom. 8:28). Therefore the serene acceptance of one’s lot in life is the road to contentment and happiness. This was the counsel of Paul (1 Tim. 6:7, 8).

Eat. Here used figuratively of putting “riches and wealth” to work, rather than hoarding them (see v. 13).

The gift of God. The ability to acquire wealth comes from God (Deut. 8:18; James 1:16, 17). All the abilities we possess are gifts from God. Whatever we have acquired by reason of these abilities should be a cause of thankfulness to God.