“All the labor of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite [or soul] is not filled.” Ecclesiastes 6:7

Man puts much of himself into his occupation. It captures the focus of a great portion of his efforts, thoughts, and energy. Sleep is sometimes lost when pondering a new, exciting business deal or when wrestling with a serious work-related problem. Those who enjoy great success often receive accolades and rewards, and feel a certain sense of pride and accomplishment in their labors. Ultimately, as this verse states, we must realize that all of this only provides for the feeding of his body.

It may also buy him a house, send his family on a vacation, and buy some nice earthly toys. But one thing it does not do is satisfy and fill the soul. Only a relationship and personal knowledge of God can do that.

According to God’s word, we should work in our occupations diligently, for the glory of God as we provide for our needs. It is also appropriate and a blessing that we gain some sense of satisfaction and enjoyment in our labors. Having said that, we must not look to our occupations as the source of soul satisfaction. Rather, let us ever seek the only One who truly can and does satisfy the soul: Jesus Christ.