Ecclesiastes 2:4

“Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.”

Reflects on the ultimate futility of earthly achievements.

“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

Highlights the importance of God's involvement in human endeavors.

“I said to myself, “Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good.” But that also proved to be meaningless.”

Contextual cross-reference to Solomon's pursuit of pleasure and its emptiness.

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”

Summarizes the true purpose of life after experiencing earthly pursuits.

““Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

Contrasts earthly pursuits with eternal values.