Numbers 30

Words matter. Promises matter. It's easy to make commitments (especially when they are far in the future). Often it isn't until later that we count the cost.

Mary Poppins warned the Banks children not to make pie-crust promises...easily made, easily broken. But sadly, we live in a culture where people often break their commitments. The LORD doesn't want people making promises they don't keep...especially when they make them to Him.

“This is what the LORD has commanded: A man who makes a vow to the Lord or makes a pledge under oath must never break it. He must do exactly what he said he would do.” (Numbers 30:1–2, NLT)

This was such a serious matter that if a person dedicated something to the LORD, and later decided he didn't want to give it, then he would have to pay the full amount, plus add one-fifth to it! That would certainly make you think twice before making rash commitments!

David asked God the questions, "Who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?" Then he answers his own questions.

“He...who keeps his oath even when it hurts.” (Psalm 15:2-4, NIV84)

Sometimes when we are young and just starting out in our faith, we are so grateful for God saving us and forgiving us of our sins that we make big promises. Later, we may forget those promises, but God never forgets. Have we reneged on a commitment we've made to God? Then let's confess our sin, ask God for His grace to make it good, and do it today--or at least take the first step.