I was watching a movie last week that caught my attention. A little girl had entered into a contest but when the time came for her to perform she shied away and wanted to forfeit. Her mother went to her and told her something that is the theme of today. 'My baby gal, you must honor your commitments. Even when you are scared, when you commit, you must fulfill'. That line hit me so much that I actually paused the movie and started to think if I always honor my commitments.
You see, in our generation, words almost count for nothing. We are quick to make promises and say Yes yet we hardly follow through our words with action. We quickly make commitments and we never fulfill them. As a result, we have become un-trust worthy people.
As Christians, we are called to higher standards. We are called to be salt of the world. I get shocked every time I see a christian who refuses to pay back money owed, who goes against their marriage commitment, who say they will do one thing and end up doing another.
Its better not to commit at all than to commit and forfeit. Same case applies to making promises to God then forgetting. The bible says its better not to make that promise at all. Eccle 5:4-5 (NIV) When you vow a vow to God, do not delay paying it, for he has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you vow. It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill.
See, even God hates dishonored commitments!
People of God, let us be known as men and women who keep our word. When we speak, let it be as good as an action. Let it be known that 'our words can be taken to the bank as security' because we always honor our commitments and always keep our word. When we are not sure we will be able to fulfill something, its better not to make the commitment. In that regard, it is important to learn the power of saying 'No' more often.
It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it. Eccle 5:5 (NLT)
