If you take the time to consider all the labor that one can do under the sun, it all turns out to be emptiness and vanity. So found King Solomon in his search for meaning and purpose in life by using all the wealth and wisdom that was available to him. The problem, he found, is that all the labor that is done “under the sun” (labor done on the earth) terminates at one’s death if you do not consider the next life. All you see is injustice, unfairness, weariness, lack of purpose, etc. which is exactly why people end up hating their lives. Solomon’s conclusion to his search – fear God and keep His commandments for God will bring all things into judgment – is the key to ensure that our labor is not in vain. The Bible declares that God will reward His people for all labor done in service to Jesus Christ. Salvation is by grace but the reward is given for service. For this reason we ought to do everything heartily as unto the Lord Jesus Christ.