Book of Ecclesiastes - Chapter 5 - Verse 6

This verse from Ecclesiastes 5:6 serves as a cautionary reminder about the power of our words and the importance of being mindful of what we say. The verse warns against allowing our mouths to cause our flesh to sin, emphasizing the consequences of speaking carelessly or thoughtlessly. It advises against making excuses or trying to justify our words before God, as this could anger Him and potentially lead to the destruction of our own work.

Essentially, this verse encourages believers to think before they speak and to take responsibility for their words and actions. It emphasizes the accountability we have to God for our speech and urges us to speak with integrity and caution. By avoiding sinful or harmful speech, we can avoid consequences that can ultimately impact the work we do and the relationships we have. This verse serves as a reminder to use our voices wisely and to be mindful of the impact our words can have on ourselves and others.

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of controlling one's speech and actions. The phrase "Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin" emphasizes the influence of our words on our behavior and ultimately on our relationship with God. By being mindful of what we say, we can avoid falling into temptation and sin. The admonition to not make excuses or errors before the angel suggests that we should take responsibility for our actions and not try to deceive God or his messengers. The consequence of not heeding this advice is that God may become angry and destroy the work of our hands, indicating that our disobedience can have serious implications on our lives and the things we create. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder to be conscientious in our words and deeds to maintain a righteous path in our walk with God.