Vows and Oaths

1 Moses spoke to the heads of the tribes of the people of Israel, saying, "This is what the Lord has commanded. 2 If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. (Numbers 30:1-2, ESV)

21 "If you make a vow to the Lord your God, you shall not delay fulfilling it, for the Lord your God will surely require it of you, and you will be guilty of sin.22 But if you refrain from vowing, you will not be guilty of sin.23 You shall be careful to do what has passed your lips, for you have voluntarily vowed to the Lord your God what you have promised with your mouth. (Deuteronomy 23:21-23, ESV)

The word "vow" comes from the Hebrew word "neder" (neh'-der)a promise (to God); also (concretely) a thing promised. Take notice to the meaning - concretely. Concrete takes a lot to break apart after it is cured. Making a vow to God binds you to Him for life. God does not take vows made to Him lightly, he will collect on His end. Jesus warned us of this as well.

33 "Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.'34 But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God,35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.36 And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.37 Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil. (Matthew 5:33-37, ESV)

If someone asks you for help, just be honest. If you are not going to help them or do not have the time to help, do not lead them on.

Father God
Help us to be people of our words. Let us more imporantly, be people of your Word. Help us to speak in truth and honesty, let what we say be simply 'Yes' or 'No', so that we may refrain from sinning. We thank You Jesus for Your words and that Your words were the truth. That your vows and oaths to us will stand the test of time. May the rest of our day be blessed.
In Jesus Mighty Name,
Amen.