The Power Of Vows.

“When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it. Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, “My vow was a mistake.” Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands?” Eccle. 5:4-6.

As the wealthy oil tycoon lay on his deathbed, life ebbing out of him. His pastor talked of God's healing power. "Pastor," he gasped, "if God heals me, I'll give the church a million dollars." Miraculously, the man was revived and within a few short weeks was out of the hospital. One day, several months later, he and the pastor chatted on the sidewalk in front of a hardware store. "You know," the pastor said, "when you were in the hospital dying, you promised to give the church a million dollars if you got well. We haven't got it yet." "Did I say that?" the oil tycoon asked. "I guess that goes to show how sick I really was!" He has clearly reneged on his vow, the way many folks do.

God is never hungry and will never be, therefore, the Bible specifically warned believers against making the vow of fools. That is making vows to God rashly or without careful consideration, emphasizing that it's better not to vow than to vow and not fulfill it, as God takes no pleasure in fools. Our text is actually very explicit, certain so called Christians like to put themselves under duress and make vows that they know they are not willing or even capable of fulfilling. God does not take pleasure in foolishness and foolish acts of worship. You must make it a point of duty to pay what you vow. It is better not to vow than to vow and not pay.

A vow is basically a promise made with your mouth to give to God something, based on scriptural teachings a vow does not have to be monetary alone, some vows are your dedication of your life and to the assignment of the Lord. It could also be your promise to do certain things in God's vineyard if God will do certain things for you. In clear terms, a vow is simply the promise you made to God or his servant, when you needed help. Your words should be your bond. If you can't keep your promise, don't make the promise. Some Christians, when they are in need will promise heaven and earth, but they are not honourable enough to keep to their words. God’s advice to such is “don't be a fool!” Selah!

FURTHER READING:

“If a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word; he must do everything he has promised.” Num. 30:2.

“It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows.” Prov. 20:25.

DECLARATION: 

Dear Abba Father, I thank You for the gift of life and the privilege of being in the land of the living. Lord I know the benefits and repercussions of making vows before You, Lord I am asking that You grant me the power, grace and wisdom to never be a fool. Please help me to fulfil all my vows to you, teach me to never be hasty and to walk in integrity before you. I trust God to make good all my promises, In the mighty name of Jesus amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:   

1 Kings. 3:1-28.

1 Kings. 4:1-34.

1 Kings. 5:1-18.

1 Kings, 6:1-38.

QUOTE FOR THE DAY:

“A Vow Is Basically A Lie Except There Is Commitment, Sacrifice And Integrity. If You Lack These, Don't Make A Vow.”