Ecclesiastes 5:2—“Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter anything before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.”
Solomon has just urged worshippers to draw near to God’s house ready “to hear” (v. 1). Now he warns against speaking hastily before God. A hurried promise, a careless prayer, or confident words about matters we scarcely understand may show that we have failed to consider whom we are addressing.
“For God is in heaven, and thou upon earth”. The Creator knows all things; we are limited and dependent. This difference calls for reverence and humility. It does not mean that God is too distant to hear us. It means that we must not approach Him as though our words were as wise and weighty as His.
“Let thy words be few” does not forbid earnest or lengthy prayer. Scripture records prayers that pour out grief and need before the Lord. Solomon warns against thoughtless speech, especially promises we do not intend to keep. The following verses press this point: if we make a vow to God, we must not delay fulfilling it (vv. 4–5).
Before worship or prayer, pause to hear God’s Word. Speak truthfully about your needs, confess your sins, and give thanks for His mercies. If you have made a promise to Him, take it seriously. When you do not know what He is doing, admit the limits of your knowledge.
The Lord invites us to pray, but His invitation is never a reason for carelessness. Let our words arise from hearts that listen to Him and fear His name.
