What does Ecclesiastes 5:6 teach about the importance of keeping vows? The gravity of a vow Ecclesiastes 5:6 warns, “Do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin, and do not say before the messenger, ‘That it was a mistake,’ why should God be angry at your words and destroy the work of your hands?” • A vow is not casual talk; it is a binding promise made in God’s hearing. • Failing to fulfill that promise is called “sin” and invites God’s anger. • Even trying to excuse a broken vow—“It was a mistake”—does not remove the guilt. • The consequence can be the undoing of one’s own efforts: “destroy the work of your hands.” Why our words matter before God • God created by speaking (Genesis 1); our words carry weight because we bear His image. • Numbers 30:2 declares, “When a man makes a vow to the LORD… he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.” • Jesus reinforces this in Matthew 5:33-37, urging simple, truthful speech so that “your ‘Yes’ is yes, and your ‘No,’ no.” • James 5:12 echoes the same call, warning that careless oaths bring judgment. Consequences of broken vows • Divine displeasure: “Why should God be angry at your words…?” • Earthly ruin: “Destroy the work of your hands” points to lost labor, fractured relationships, forfeited testimony. • Spiritual dullness: habitual vow-breaking sears the conscience and hardens the heart (cf. Hebrews 3:13). Practical areas where vows apply • Marriage covenants (Malachi 2:14) • Financial pledges or offerings (Acts 5:1-11 for negative example) • Ministry commitments and church service • Everyday promises to family, friends, employers Living out faithful vows 1. Weigh your words before speaking (Proverbs 10:19). 2. If you promise, fulfill promptly (Psalm 15:4: “He who keeps his oath even when it hurts”). 3. Repent quickly when you fail, seeking forgiveness and restitution. 4. Cultivate integrity so that vows become rare—because your regular word is trusted. |
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