In times past, it was a hearty handshake that sealed an agreement between two parties, for when a man gave his word, it was as if he had signed his name on the dotted line of an official contract. This was because both parties were trusted to honor their word. Ironclad was how this symbolic gesture was seen, for even the courts would uphold this verbal acknowledgment as a promise.
Yet in those days a person thought their reputation was something to be protected, which is why most didn’t give their assent unless they were confident in their ability to follow through. And since, anymore, being a person of good character (one who affirms their word with action) is not the norm, when someone makes a commitment there is little expectation within themselves or from others that he or she will actually follow through. Because the assumption now is that most people lack the integrity to fulfill their promises, a person’s word no longer carries the weight it once did.
So a heavy cloud of doubt has moved in over today’s culture. For when “do what is best for you” became the prevailing attitude, it was just the permission people needed to say “yes” for convenience sake, without true sincerity, ultimately setting them free from being obligated to anyone, whether that be a relative, friend, acquaintance, or even their employer. For if ‘showing up’ doesn’t feel good in that moment, then no one should be offended since they were just agreeing with what society has taught them.
But this should not be the behavior of those belonging to My fold. For when they give their word, it should be sound and solid, meaning that their actions support what they have said: where their “yes” is “yes”, and their “no” is “no”, because they live to represent Christ in all that they say and do. For when the behavior of My own is out of character with what others are expecting (because they have actually done what they said they would do), there is a moment of recognition, where a noticeable difference in this believer is seen, testifying to the Gospel apart from quoting Scripture or preaching.
Therefore, dear children, don\’t be hypocritical in your words and conduct, but instead, let both be in alignment with each other. Which means: when you say “yes” to another, do not waffle back and forth over following through with your commitment. Stay true to your word even when it is difficult to do. For your flesh will attempt to convince you that it’s okay if you opt-out of your obligation. But remember, it’s your reputation and witness that suffers in the end.
Though you may wish to be freed from a verbal bond because you gave your word in haste, or felt pressured, even in these moments, do not recant, if at all possible, but stay true to your word. For each time you make this decision to honor the agreements you have made, then you shall not only be known as dependable, but shall be a reflection of Christ through your good conduct.
For a word given, or an oath made, still holds meaning in Heaven. By giving your word, you have made a type of covenant with this other person, one which should not be broken unless there are valid reasons. So purpose in your hearts to be people who walk with honor and dignity: those who carefully consider their words, and thereby aren’t found making quick promises to others, those they have no intention of keeping.
Be men and women who are known as trustworthy and honest, so that your character is never called into question because you have built a solid reputation in your communities.
“This is what the LORD has commanded: 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.” -Numbers 30:1-2