More regulations and stipulations are laid down in today's reading. But one of them is foundational. It deals with integrity of purpose.
"If you make a vow to your Lord..." Any vow you make is made before the Lord. As Christians, our word is our bond before the world. And how we fulfill those vows is our witness before the world.
When we fail to live up to our vows, the world notices. But we don't bear the onus , our God does. You've heard it. Christians are no better than anyone else. See them at church, gossiping about the neighbors. Well, you know how he made his money. Did you hear about her? And on it goes.
As ambassadors of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. And it begins with keeping one's word. When you make a commitment, it must be kept. Even if it turns out to be to your own detriment, you must keep you word.
If your word is worthless, what about your invitation to Christ to come into your life? Is that worthless as well? I certainly hope not.
Father, God,
Help us to guard our tongues. Keep us from rash speaking. Strengthen our resolve to discipline ourselves to keeping our word as if it were Your word.
In Jesus' most precious name.
Amen.
Amen.
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