The author of the book of Ecclesiastes (an Old Testament book) said that he had accomplished many things in life, but his concluding thoughts on life’s sorrows and joys were, “Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity” (Eccl. 12:8).
Vanity of vanities: “As the words are an exclamation, it would be better to translate them, ‘O vanity of vanities!’ O emptiness of emptiness! True, substantial good is not to be found in anything liable to change and corruption.” – A. Clarke
“It is vanity, therefore, to seek after riches, which must perish, and to trust in them. It is vanity also to lay one’s self out for honors, and to raise one’s self to a high station in life. It is vanity to follow the desires of the flesh, and to covet (lust after) that for which we must afterwards be grievously punished (at the time of God’s judgment). It is vanity to wish for a long life, and to take little care of leading a good life. It is vanity to mind only this present life, and not to look forward to those things, which are to come (future eternal joys). It is vanity to love that which passes with all speed (our earthly lives), and not to hasten there where everlasting joy abides (heaven).” – From The Pulpit Commentary (somewhat revised)
As we get older and more experienced about life we can truly see that living for God is the only thing that can give us any real meaning and purpose. For those who make the one, true God their God, they will find life’s true meaning, as well as inward peace. Their circumstances cannot rob them of these things. Those who are “in Christ” will have God guiding them through life, and they will also have in the next life, “an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4).
Ask Jesus to come into your life; He will come if you really want Him to.