Solomon is troubled in his spirit in these verses because he finds that even though it is better to be wise than foolish, in the end the wise and the foolish die. In verse 16, he is seems distraught at the thought of not being remembered. After all, he has built, labored, and known, he doesn't want to be forgotten. The truth, no matter how great you may be in this life, after a few generations, we will all be forgotten. In most cases, no matter what was gained in our lifespan, will soon be gone after being divided among heirs on down the road. There may be things recorded in history books or even memorials made, but after those are gone who really knew us, the real 'us' will no longer be remembered.
After allowing those thoughts to trouble him, Solomon decides in verse 18 that he hated all the labor he had taken 'under the sun.' Not only is it all temporary, but he can't even take it with him. We read in the Bible that the pleasures of sin last but for a season. In Ecclesiastes we find that the pleasures (things that in and of themselves are not sin) found in this world only last a season as well.
Finally, in verses 24-26, we see Solomon begin to look ABOVE the sun.
“There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I? For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good before God. This also is vanity and vexation of spirit.”
Love that glimmer of hope. Perspective is introduced here.
"It is the simple things. Eating, drinking, and working, those come from the hand of God. These are good things. These are daily mercies that should bring us pleasure. We do not go chasing every rainbow! We can come around the dinner table with family or friends and be refreshed. We can relax in the evening after a hard day of honest work and be content. Enjoyment comes from the hand of God." - Ecclesiastes Wisdom for Living Well
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