Bible Reading: Psalm 143:1- 12
“But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.” James 5:12 KJV
A vow is a solemn promise or pledge. It is a debt that must be paid. It becomes more compelling when you make such promise to God. It is not compulsory that you make a vow particularly to God. However, you are bound by such a vow once it is made. God is so particular about us honouring our words that he says in James 5:12(KJV): “But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”
Our words are so important that the bible says except such word is cancelled immediately by a higher authority, it stands. In Numbers Chapter 30, the bible says if an unmarried woman makes a vow and it is not cancelled by the father any day he hears of it, such a vow shall be binding. If she is married and the husband does not cancel her vow whenever he knows of it, such vows shall be binding. On the other hand any vow made by a man shall be binding on him.
It is important to note however that one is not compelled to make a vow. As Christians, do not make a pledge you cannot fulfill. When they call for pledges in a church or any other gathering, think over it before making one because it becomes binding once you make it whether verbally or in writing!
Non fulfillment of a pledge will rob you of blessings. Of course it also leads to unanswered prayers. No wonder the bible says in Proverbs 18:21 (KJV): “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”
Action Point: Look back and remember all the vows that you have not fulfilled and prayerfully work to fulfill them.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero