Reverence toward God in worship and word is considered first,
followed by covetousness, and God’s gift of enjoyment.
Reverence in Speech
Some of Solomon’s advice parallels that of Jesus. Solomon
advised readers to pray thoughtfully, without haste, and with
brevity. Jesus warned of lengthy prayers to be seen by men (Matt
6:5, Mark 12:38-40). Jesus also rebuked meaningless repetition
(Matt 6:7).
Solomon advised readers to pay their vows quickly. Jesus went
further and advised hearers to avoid vows (Matt 5:34-35).
Ecclesiastes 5 Outline
5:1-7
Respect God in word
5:1-3
Sacrifice and prayer
5:4-7
Advice regarding vows to God
5:8-17
Greed: Motives and evils
5:8-9
Economic oppression from self-promotion
5:10-12
Desire for more money
5:13-17
Desire to hoard money
5:18-20
Gifts of God
5:18
Enjoyment in toil
5:19
Power to enjoy wealth and possessions
5:20
Joy
Pain of Greed
Two kinds of covetousness are discussed in this chapter: the
desire to get more and the desire to keep without sharing.
Jesus said, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of
greed: for not even when one has an abundance does his life
consist of his possessions.” (Luke 12:15, NASB)
The sleep of the godly laborer is sweet, while that of the
ungodly rich man is not (Eccl 5:12). A greedy rich man may
suffer from indigestion, anxiety, and insomnia. David wrote that
God blessed his beloved even in sleep (Psalm 127:2).
Contentment cures greed (Lk 3:12-14, Ph 4:11, 1 Tim 6:6-8).
God Gives Enjoyment
Money, material possessions, and power can be obtained by both
the righteous and unrighteous. Empowerment to truly enjoy wealth
comes only from God.