Solomon, the author of the book Ecclesiastes, states in verse eleven from chapter two, “Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun.” Solomon acknowledges all the things that he produced in his life. The buildings of high places he made for Chemosh and Molech, finished projects in Millo, repaired the breaches of the city of David, produced shields of gold, made pillars, vessels of brass, built houses with tables, and golden altars, and a brazen scaffold. The things Solomon remembered made him realize that they did not result in true happiness. The time consumed in his accomplishments did not benefit the inner man but the physical nature. The outer side of Solomon received the attention, and his internal suffered.
The example above illustrates what could happen when we focus more on the flesh and very little time feeding our spiritual side. The relationship between God and us becomes further and further because of all the natural success we experience. The projects, tasks, and labor itself are all a part of the world system. These things will not be with us when our life is over upon earth. The only part that will leave with us from this world into eternity is our spirit.
Solomon discovered that happiness does not come from the outside but from the inside out. He understands that there is no spiritual profit here on earth because all is vanity. The enticement of the flesh lifting oneself over possessions and achievements will only risk falling into the temptation to sin. No spiritual connection with God will only cause the physical part to lead us to ruin.