Ecclesiastes 5
Do not speak rashly (1–7). Your mouth can cause you to sin, especially when you pray hypocritically or make rash promises to God. Hasty words and lying words do not please God, nor will He accept excuses when you fail to keep your vow. Do not live in a dream world of religious fantasy, expressed by words alone. Be honest with God (
Do not marvel at wrongs (8–9). This does not mean that you should approve them, but do not be surprised when they happen. The poor Jews in Solomon’s day had to put up with selfish bureaucrats who had to be paid off before they would help. (Have times changed?) Certainly you should work to see that justice is done, but do not be disappointed if many of your efforts fail.
Do not covet wealth (10–20). The poor think all their problems will be solved with more money, and the rich have problems because of their money! Money does not satisfy (v.
“O God, give us serenity to accept what cannot be changed, courage to change what should be changed, and wisdom to distinguish the one from the other.”
Reinhold Niebuhr