What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 5:2? Do not be quick to speak “Do not be quick with your mouth…”. • The Teacher warns against rushing into speech, especially in worship and prayer. Words tumble out easily, but they carry weight before the LORD (Matthew 12:36). • James 1:19 echoes the call: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Proverbs 10:19 reminds us, “When words are many, transgression is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” • Slowness to speak cultivates humility; it signals that we value God’s voice above our own (Psalm 46:10). do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God “…and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God.” • Speech begins in the heart (Luke 6:45); hastiness there leads to careless prayer and rash vows (Judges 11:30-35). • Psalm 19:14 prays, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD.” True worship starts with thoughtful, reverent meditation. • 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us that “man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart,” pressing us to guard inner motives before opening our lips. For God is in heaven and you are on earth “For God is in heaven and you are on earth.” • The distance highlights God’s transcendence and our finiteness (Isaiah 55:8-9). He sees all; we see in part (1 Corinthians 13:12). • Recognizing His throne in heaven produces reverence, not casual chatter (Psalm 99:1-3). • 1 Chronicles 29:11 proclaims, “Yours, O LORD, is the greatness…for all that is in heaven and on earth is Yours,” underscoring why we approach Him with awe. So let your words be few “Therefore, let your words be few.” • Fewer words foster sincerity. Jesus warned, “When you pray, do not babble on like the pagans” (Matthew 6:7). • Ecclesiastes repeats the theme: “The more words, the more futility” (6:11). God hears the heart; He is not impressed by length. • Practical applications: – Pause before praying; consider what truly needs to be said. – Speak plainly, trusting God already knows (Matthew 6:8). – Allow silence in worship; listen for His still, small voice (1 Kings 19:12). summary Ecclesiastes 5:2 urges reverent restraint before the Almighty. Guard your mouth, examine your heart, remember His exalted place, and choose brief, sincere words. Such worship honors a holy God and keeps us anchored in humble dependence on Him. |
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