When making promises or fulfilling commitments, Jesus spoke of the integrity of speaking simple, clear, and responsible words. However, He observed some people would supplement their promise or commitment by swearing by this or that to further the belief of others that their intention was to follow through with what they had just said. This practice of not being people of their word offended Jesus’ sense of justice, particularly when people were using the name of God or the temple or some other religious item as the object of their sworn statement. Are we people of our word or do we need a court order to force us to do what we have committed to do?
Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Your word is enough. To strengthen your promise with a vow shows that something is wrong. (Matthew 5:37 NLT)
Jesus also challenged people about their dishonouring of God’s name in thoughtless singing, and prayer. Do we worship God by singing praises to Him for His grace and goodness to us or, do we sing songs just because we like the tune or the beat? Are we really confessing our sins when we pray a prayer of confession in church? When we pray, “In Jesus name” are we asking for things we know Jesus would ask for? When we pray, do we mean what we say and say what we mean?
When you pray, don’t babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered only by repeating their words again and again. (Matthew 6:7 NLT)
Are we honouring God with our use of His name in our words and in our lives? Are we honouring one another in our conversations, our commitments, and even in our disappointments?
Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. (1 Timothy 4:12 NLT)
Prayer: Loving God, Help me to think about what I am saying and doing in all my activities. I want to be a person who acts with integrity in all my affairs. I want to worship You in spirit and in truth for that is what You desire. Amen
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