‘Don’t make rash promises.’ Ecclesiastes 5:2 NLT
When it comes to making commitments and keeping them, Solomon doesn’t mince any of his words: ‘Think before you speak, and don’t make any rash promises to God. He is in Heaven and you are on earth, so don’t say any more than you have to… So when you make a promise to God, keep it as quickly as possible… Better not to promise at all than to make a promise and not keep it. Don’t let your own words lead you into sin.’ (Ecclesiastes 5:2–6 GNT)
That means don’t be impulsive, listen as much as you speak, get as much information as you can, then consult God in prayer before you make a commitment. People often say what they think others want to hear, but that can get them into a lot of trouble. Don’t promise something you can’t deliver. And don’t make excuses. Nothing diminishes your influence like trying to reverse a mistake with a lame excuse. When you make a commitment based on emotion, you will only follow through if you feel a certain way. True commitment doesn’t work like that. It’s not a feeling; it’s a character quality.
Human emotions constantly fluctuate, but commitment has to be rock solid. Real dedication shines through in times of trouble and adversity. It doesn’t depend on gifts or abilities, but on integrity. It’s a result of choice, not conditions. And it only lasts when it’s based on values. Bottom line: ‘Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God.’ (Ecclesiastes 5:2 NKJV) So look before you leap, and think before you commit.
SoulFood: 2 Kings 4:42–44, Mark 6:30–44
The Word for Today is authored by Bob and Debby Gass and published under licence from UCB International Copyright 2023
