Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?
A man should rejoice in his own works. Compare Ecclesiastes 3:12; Ecclesiastes 5:18. Inculcating a thankful enjoyment of God's gifts, and a cheerful discharge of man's duties, founded on fear of God; not as the sensualist (Ecclesiastes 11:9); not as the anxious money-seeker (Ecclesiastes 2:23; Ecclesiastes 2:26; Ecclesiastes 5:10-17; 1 Timothy 6:17).
For that is his portion - in the present life. If it were made his main portion, it would be "vanity" (Ecclesiastes 2:1; Luke 16:25).
For who shall bring him to see what shall be after him? - (Ecclesiastes 6:12.) Not after his death, but after his present condition, what event of decisive influence on his fate shall happen-our ignorance as to the future, which is God's "time" (Ecclesiastes 3:11), should lead us to use the present time in the best sense, and instead of distressing ourselves with wearisome cares, to leave the future to His infinite wisdom (Matthew 6:20; Matthew 6:25; Matthew 6:31-34).