1. I sought pleasure (1-3)

Solomon wanted to find the most worthwhile way to spend his one short life. He was powerful and wealthy, and he tried every way of pleasure-seeking. He sought meaning by indulging his flesh. He denied himself nothing. He had everything he desired and did everything he wanted to do (10a). But he found no meaning and no joy.

2. I undertook great projects (4-11)

Solomon built the temple; he built his own palace; he built houses and planted orchards and made an elaborate irrigation system. He amassed a fortune. But he would finally leave everything to the one who came after him (17-23).

3. Wisdom seemed good (12-26)

It seems better to be wise than to be a fool, but like the fool, the wise man too must die. Solomon finally realized that God gives happiness to the one who pleases him (26).

Application: Lord, help me to please you and not waste my life trying to please myself.
One Word: Seek to please God