Enjoy Work and its Benefits

24 There is nothing better for people than to eat and drink,

and to find enjoyment in their work.

I also perceived that this ability to find enjoyment comes from God.

25 For no one can eat and drink

or experience joy apart from him.

26 For to the one who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy,

but to the sinner, he gives the task of amassing wealth –

only to give it to the one who pleases God.

This task of the wicked is futile – like chasing the wind!

3 For everything there is an appointed time,

and an appropriate time for every activity on earth:

2 A time to be born, and a time to die;

a time to plant, and a time to uproot what was planted;

3 A time to kill, and a time to heal;

a time to break down, and a time to build up;

4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh;

a time to mourn, and a time to dance.

5 A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones;

a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

6 A time to search, and a time to give something up as lost;

a time to keep, and a time to throw away;

7 A time to rip, and a time to sew;

a time to keep silent, and a time to speak.

8 A time to love, and a time to hate;

a time for war, and a time for peace.