Set to dark modeSet to dark modeEcclesiastes 5 Commentary
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When we approach God, we ought to do so with a pure desire to listen and obey rather than seeking ways to get God to do our bidding. Listening takes effort, but it is the path to wisdom.
Solomon continues his advice on how we ought to behave in our interactions with God, warning us against the dangers of improper oaths and suggesting a powerful alternative: keep your promises.
Returning to the ills of injustice, Solomon explains that part of the reason for injustice is bureaucracy.
A love of money and dependence on wealth robs the rich of contentment. But work leads to contentment.
The self-destruction that stems from hoarding is lamented. Hoarders refuse to face the reality of death. This evil harms not only the hoarder, but also succeeding generations.
Life is not meaningless or joyless. Joy is something we can choose. God has given us an allotment to steward.
At the heart of the message of Chapter 5 is a calling to listen to God. To fear and obey Him. To find our gladness in the good stewardship of what He has given. Work can be a distraction or a blessing. Wealth can be a distraction or a blessing. The same for sacrifice. Actions and attitudes are meaningless in and of themselves. They are vanity. But in obedience to God and in response to the gifts He has given, the very same actions and attitudes are transformed into something good. Something meaningful.
This chapter begins with a set of warnings about the kind of vows and sacrifices we present to God. It goes on to warn about wealth and our obsession with money. When we try to repurpose the tools, opportunities, and resources that are supposed to spur us toward faith, we pervert their designed intention and undermine their effectiveness.
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