Do we keep promises today? Let’s plunge into the Deeper Waters and find out.
Today, we’re looking at Ecclesiastes 5:4-7.
4 When you vow a vow to God, do not delay paying it, for he has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you vow. 5 It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay. 6 Let not your mouth lead you into sin, and do not say before the messenger that it was a mistake. Why should God be angry at your voice and destroy the work of your hands? 7 For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity; but God is the one you must fear.
We have already spoken on dreams, but what about vows? In the past, people could say that their word was their bond. We make jokes about politicians making promises when they’re campaigning and breaking them when they get into office or not following through. If anyone thinks this is just one party, you’re not paying attention. Both of them do it.
The reason we have to write up contracts and work through third parties with them is because people are no longer trustworthy with their word. Once someone breaks their word, there can be cause to question them on everything else. Of course, there can be justifiable grounds at times, but usually, this is not the case.
Marriage is a big example in our society. While it is true that Christians seriously committed to Christianity and being regular church attendees can greatly reduce divorce, divorce is all too common still. I speak as one who has gone through it. I can understand a girl being concerned about dating me if she finds out I’m divorced. “What were the circumstances? What kind of man is he?” Fortunately, I have enough character witnesses as well that can attest to my being the innocent party in the divorce.
Still, this is a problem that we have. Marriage was meant to be a lifelong institution and changing the nature of marriage changed everything. The redefinition of marriage being supposedly between two people of the same sex was not the first major change. No-fault divorce was the first major change. Divorce should not be easy. Keep in mind I am not saying that divorce is never allowable, but I am saying even when it is allowable, it should not be something that can be done casually.
Personally also, this is one reason that I hesitate to make promises on anything. If someone asks me if I promise, I just tell them I will do my best. Anything can happen and I don’t want to have broken my word to someone. If I say I promise something, it is extremely serious at that point.
Also, it’s worth pointing out that while I think the Teacher gives a reductio ad absurdum in a sense in the book, he is not an atheist. He is still within the Israelite tradition as he indicates here. He is certainly right that it is better to make no vow than to make a vow and break it. Jesus said similar in the Sermon on the Mount. Be hesitant with your words before God. If you make a promise, He will hold you to account.
In Christ,
Nick Peters
(And I affirm the virgin birth)
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