By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Proverbs 6:1-4 "Have you promised to be responsible for someone else's debts, my child? Have you been caught by your own words, trapped by your own promises? Well then, my child, you are in that person's power, but this is how to get out of it: hurry to him, and beg him to release you." - GNB
The words of the wise man. Pledges,vows, promises and other commitments are common in every day life. They are made by individuals and nations alike. God too makes them. The people to whom these commitments are made trust and remain hopeful to see their fulfilment. The scripture above paints a scenario in which one fails to honour their commitment and what they should do.
God is always true to His promises. He calls us to follow suit. But for various reasons, genuine or not, we may fail. The solution is to humble oneself and talk to the person. The honouring of pledges is a test of one’s faithfulness. Just as God never falls short of what He has promised to do, He expects those who subscribe to Him to be faithful too. And when you fail, to humble yourself and repent.
Some make pledges to impress others and yet are not committed in their hearts to fulfill them. That’s hypocrisy. One would rather not commit to anything than do so out of unconsidered excitement or a grumbling heart. Neither should it be out of manipulation and trickery. Instead, our vows, pledges and other commitments should be first to the honour of God and from a heart of gratitude and willingness to genuinely do good to all. Then we shall recieve the reward from God.
Matthew 6:1 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven."
Shalom children of God.