Ecclesiastes 5-6
-Devotion By Paula Kirkpatrick (MN)
One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Psalm 46:10. “Cease striving and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (NASB) This verse daily reminds me that all my planning and busywork, which often brings me stress, fades in the knowledge that God is sovereign in the world’s events and should be sovereign in my life as well. “Striving” is a good word description of my often, feeble attempts to meaningfully serve Him. And yet, I am drawn to the NIV version of the first part of this verse.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (NIV)
Be still. Not moving. Quiet. Then, you can be aware of God’s presence. Then you can be aware of His vibrant touch in the world that surrounds you.
In Ecclesiastes 5:1-7, the writer encourages this same reverence as God’s people went to the house of God.
“Guard your steps as you go to the house of God and draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools; for they do not know they are doing evil. Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few. For the dream comes through much effort and the voice of a fool through many words. When you make a vow to God, do not be late in paying it; for He takes no delight in fools. Pay what you vow! For in many dreams and in many words there is emptiness. Rather, fear God.” (Ecclesiastes 5:1-3, 7)
Guard your steps, draw near to listen, do not be hasty. Why? Because God is in heaven and we are on earth. Let our words be few. Be still!
“The Communicator’s Commentary, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon” by David A. Hubbard, page 131, paragraph 2, explains more on this passage as it relates to the Israelite nation.
“‘The sacrifice of fools’ was empty sacrifice, going through the ritual but missing its meaning. What was the basic purpose of the offerings God required? It was communion with God expressed by ‘listen’ which means virtually to obey, and ‘draw near’ which frequently describes the intimacy between God and those who go to Him for worship and fellowship. The sacrifices dealt with the major human needs. They brought forgiveness…they expressed thanksgiving…they fulfilled vows. Listing them, was an essential requirement if the sacrifices were to have any meaning.”
As verse 7 says, in many words there is emptiness. The last three words of the verse declare the remedy. “Rather, fear God.”
God desires a relationship with us. Yet, in that bond, He deserves our reverence.
Open your mind and your ears to God’s message for you. Come before Him in humble devotion. He has much to share with you. Just listen.
Reflection Questions
- How do you listen to God?
- In what ways, do you show reverence to God?
Prayer
Dear God in Heaven – Thank you for creating, loving, sustaining, guiding us on Earth. I want to praise You, revere You, fear You, love You, serve You, and follow You, Your Word and Your Son all the days that You give me. Help me to listen to You.
Seek Grow Love 