How does Ecclesiastes 5:7 warn against "many dreams" and "many words"? Setting the Scene Ecclesiastes 5:7 — “For as many dreams bring futility, so also many words. Therefore, fear God.” A Snapshot of the Verse • “Many dreams” — inner fantasies, ambitious schemes, unfettered imaginings. • “Many words” — excessive talk, hollow vows, religious chatter. • “Futility” — emptiness, nothing gained, chasing the wind. • “Fear God” — reverent awe that moves us to humble obedience. Why “Many Dreams” Are Dangerous • They can lure us into self-made kingdoms instead of God’s kingdom. • They shift trust from God’s providence to our own ingenuity (Jeremiah 17:5). • They multiply restless desires, birthing discontent (1 Timothy 6:9). • They keep the mind busy while the soul stays shallow (Luke 12:16-21). Why “Many Words” Are Hazardous • Talk can outpace action, breeding hypocrisy (Matthew 23:3). • The tongue, unbridled, stirs sin (Proverbs 10:19; James 3:5-6). • Vows made lightly invite God’s judgment (Ecclesiastes 5:4-6). • Endless explanations often mask unbelief (Matthew 6:7-8). The Heart of the Warning • Both dreaming without submission and speaking without restraint create a life of vanity. • The antidote is a posture of reverent fear before God, where dreams are surrendered and words are weighed. Living the Verse Today • Filter aspirations through Scripture and prayer before pursuing them. • Practice silence and brevity; let speech be measured and true (Colossians 4:6). • Replace self-promotion with God-exaltation in conversations. • Let every plan and promise be made consciously “before God.” Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 19:21 — “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.” • Proverbs 13:3 — “He who guards his mouth protects his life.” • Matthew 12:36 — “I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.” Takeaway Truth Futile dreams and unchecked words evaporate; reverent fear of God endures. |
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