Chronological Reading Plan for June 18, Ecc 1-6

Today's readings are Ecc 1-6. Tomorrow's are Ecc 7-12. 

Ecclesiastes can be a tough book if not read in context. 

First, the author, presumably Solomon, is looking back on his life, relating what worked and what didn't work. He is sharing what areas he concentrated upon that were unfruitful and non-productive. It is a warning to place your focus on things above, not earthly things. It is not meant to create despair, but to re-orient those that are building their lives on things that will not last and are not eternal. It's basic message is this, "If you've placed all your value in things that are all about you, your life is empty and in vain."

Second, the intended audience of the day, those surrounding the king who were, most likely, well-to-do, educated and had the time and resources to read...were the exact type of people Solomon intended to caution, people who thought their success and popularity had meaning and worth. 

Reading with these two points in mind helps to show the wisdom of a man who had it all, still felt empty and found out all he ever really needed was faith and trust in God.