Keep Your Word

“But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.” ‭‭James‬ ‭5:12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Have you ever said "I swear" or "I promise"? Perhaps you have said "I promise, cross my heart". Our statements should be straightforward and clear. We shouldn't have to swear or promise. A simple word of yes or no should be enough. If we tell someone that we are going to do something, they should be able to count on us to follow through. If we have made promises, or sworn to do something, then we need to do everything we can to do it. However, there should be no need to exaggerate our intentions by adding a swear or promise to our statement. A simple yes or no should be sufficient. Psalm 15:4 says this about a righteous man: “Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord, and keep their promises even when it hurts.” NLT‬‬ We, as believers in Jesus, should be able to say something and, without doubt, others should be able to trust our word. Our words are our advocate or our enemy, they justify us or they condemn us. Jesus said it like this: “The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭12:37‬ ‭NLT‬‬ May God help us to be straight and clear in our day to day conversation.