What Jesus Did! 'Vows Not Needed!' — Matthew 5:33-34

Saturday, February 27, 2021

[Jesus continued:] "You have also heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the Lord.' But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, 'By heaven!' because heaven is God's throne."
— Matthew 5:33-34 NLT

Key Thought

When we tell God or anyone that we will do something, he expects us to keep our word. It doesn't matter what the cultural view of truth and lying or reliability is, we are to be honest before God and with each other. In a way, it is ridiculous to try to live in any other way. After all, God knows our hearts, our intentions, and our actions. He will hold us to our word whether anyone else does or not! So let's make sure our word is genuine and that we don't need to pile up a bunch of other "flowery" language, vows, or expletives — even ones normally acceptable in our culture — to prop up our commitments. If we say we'll do it, then let's do it!

Today's Prayer

Father in heaven, please forgive me for the times I have not kept my word. Stir in me a passion for faithfulness and trustworthiness. Make me a person who can be counted on to follow through with what I say. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
  • Deuteronomy 23:21-23
  • Proverbs 12:22

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 5:33-34 NLT — "You have also heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the Lord.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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