DCLM Daily Manna 2026: DCLM Daily Manna 8 February 2026: Vanity of Wordly Pursuit
Text: Ecclesiastes 1:12–18 (KJV)
I, the Preacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. 13 And I set my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all that is done under heaven; this burdensome task God has given to the sons of man, by which they may be exercised. 14 I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and indeed, all is vanity and grasping for the wind.
15 What is crooked cannot be made straight,
And what is lacking cannot be numbered.
16 I communed with my heart, saying, “Look, I have attained greatness, and have gained more wisdom than all who were before me in Jerusalem. My heart has understood great wisdom and knowledge.” 17 And I set my heart to know wisdom and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also is grasping for the wind.
18 For in much wisdom is much grief,
And he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.
KEY VERSE: Ecclesiastes 1:18
“For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.”
The story is told of a very wealthy industrialist who once wrote that, although he possessed great riches by human standards, he felt empty and broken inside. He admitted that something was deeply wrong with his life. Sadly, despite all his achievements, he lacked a relationship with God and had nothing solid to anchor his soul during difficult times.
In today’s passage, Solomon paints a vivid picture of people who pursue wisdom, knowledge, and success without God. They believe they can live independently of their Creator’s guidance and care.
In their quest for earthly achievements, they overlook their spiritual condition. They chase temporary things and forget eternal realities. Though they may gain wealth, fame, and applause, they remain poor toward God.
Across the world, many accomplished individuals—renowned for their intelligence, wealth, and influence—still struggle with emptiness and dissatisfaction. Outward success does not always bring inner peace. This confirms the truth of Solomon’s words: “Vanity of vanities; all is vanity.” Without God, even the greatest achievements fail to give lasting meaning.
We must remember that everything we acquire on earth will one day fade away. Jesus asks a powerful question that every person must answer: What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul? Each of us must choose whether to pursue lasting heavenly riches or chase empty illusions.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Worldly accomplishments without Christ ultimately have no lasting value.
THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
Daily Manna 8 February 2026
