I have heard many people speak about the promises they made to God during difficult situations in their lives. Many of these people have sought to honor those promises, but not everyone does. I have know more than a few people who have been quick to promise, and slow to deliver. I remember a particularly heated conversation I had with someone who told me that God didn't expect him to keep his promises, because God knew he could keep his promises.
However, the Scriptures don't support that avenue of thought. In this verse, Solomon clearly teaches that only a fool gives no thought to his ability to keep his vow. In a similar vein, Jesus warns those who would be quick to follow him to give it serious thought like they would if they were going to build a tower. Foolish people make promises or commitments without counting the cost.
This proverb is a warning against hasty promises. It is closely related to the call to let your "yes," be yes and your "no," be no. As believers we are expected to make our word our bond. When we speak, people should have full confidence that we are speaking the truth. As I read this proverb, I keep wondering how many promises I have made to God (and others), and have broken. Deep in my heart, I have this feeling that they are too numerous to count, although none springs to mind at this moment.
This verse should cause us to stop and reconsider the ease with which we make a promise (especially to God). It should also cause us to reflect on our faithfulness to our vows. So the next time you are tempted to make a vow to God: stop, think it over, count the cost, and should you make a vow, honor it.
Some closing thoughts:
- When you are in a difficult situation you don't need to give God anything to get his help. The Lord abounds in tender mercies, and delights in answering the prayers of his people. He also is will to save those who call on him as it is written: "Whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Rom. 10:13).
- No matter how great the sacrifice you are making (or are willing to make) is you cannot obligate God. God doesn't need anything; he is complete in himself. We cannot put God in our debt. Therefore, remember that whatever you promise will cost you, but will never place God in your debt.
- If you are overcome with gratitude at the Lord's gracious deliverance and desire to honor him, give careful thought to the best way to honor him. Does depriving yourself of something you like or doing something you should already be doing really going to honor God? Is God impressed by the fact that you promise not to eat another double cheeseburger, if he helps you get through your heart surgery? Is he impressed with your promise to go to church every Sunday, when you should already be doing that?
- You have to ask the question, "Can I cover the check, my mouth is writing?". Can you do what you promise to do? If not, don't promise. You'll only ensnare yourself. God will expect full payment of your promise. Just typing those words makes me uncomfortable, because they are true.
- If you make a vow to the Lord, be quick to fulfill it. If you honor your commitment, God will honor you. Don't forget that. I encourage you to give careful thought when considering making a vow to the Lord. After giving it careful thought, let your vows be few and far between. But most importantly, let them be carried out with swiftness and joy.
