Promises
Promises (vow, pledge, oath, or covenant)
We are all accustomed to promises or vows. We are also accustomed to seeing them made and broken. One may say that promises are made to be broken, and some may say that promises are made to be fulfilled. Some may claim with certainty to have kept every promise. There are many reasons that this is true; sometimes we forget, sometimes we are negligent, sometimes due to earthly busy life challenges beyond our control, and finally, due to the sudden change in physical or financial capability.
What we have promised at present could have a different standing in the future; we don’t know what the future will bring—only God does. Although people change their minds and break promises, the bible taught us that it’s better that we don’t promise than that you do promise and not follow through. The principle here is clear for Christians: do not make promises to the Lord or one another.
First: The fact that we are prone to errors in judgment which are part of the fallen nature of humanity, does not mean that we can make thoughtless or mindless promises. We don’t know what will happen tomorrow.
Are we still alive to fulfill the promises? (James 4:14), to make promises or assurances that we will do or not do something is thoughtless. God is the one in control, not us, and we know “that God works for the good of those who love him and have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28). Knowing this, we can see that it is unnecessary to make promises or vows since we are not in control, which will point out us not having enough trust in God.
Jesus commands that our word be sufficient and that we do not need to make promises. Adding Promises (vows or oaths) to our words opens the opportunity for Satan’s influence, whose desire is to trap us and compromise our Christian faith.
All you need to say is ‘yes’ or ‘no’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. (Matthew 5:37). When we say “yes” or “no,” that’s precisely what we have to pursue and be careful to watch for possible danger or difficulties, for the enemy cannot rest until they do evil things; they are robbed of sleep till they make someone stumble.