Some troubles that people get into are a result of them making promises that are beyond their control. The bible has many examples of people who made a commitment that they could not fulfill or its fulfillment was costly.
In Judges 11:30-31, Jephthah made a vow that if he wins the battle, whoever comes first to meet him would be sacrificed to the Lord. It happens that as they came back from the battle the person who came first to meet him was his first and only daughter. His daughter had to be killed because of this vow. Saul the king also got into a similar situation where he commanded people not to eat at all during their battle with the Philistines and made a vow. It happens that his son Jonathan broke the vow without knowing, but people refused to get him killed. (Judges 11:30-31, 1 Samuel 14:27-30).
Jesus is teaching that you should not make a promise that is beyond your control. Let your yes, be yes and no be no, and you should not commit beyond that. People or their children become slaves of others because of the oath, promises, and because of making commitments that are beyond their control. Some people become the victims of loan sharks, victims of banks, and victims of other institutions. Houses, cars, and other properties get repossessed because people are failing to meet their commitments. Simple answers of Yes or No will save your life.
The scriptures in Mat 5:33-37 CEV says “You know that our ancestors were told, “Don’t use the Lord’s name to make a promise unless you are going to keep it.” (34) But I tell you not to swear by anything when you make a promise! Heaven is God’s throne, so don’t swear by heaven. (35) The earth is God’s footstool, so don’t swear by the earth. Jerusalem is the city of the great king, so don’t swear by it. (36) Don’t swear by your own head. You cannot make one hair white or black. (37) When you make a promise, say only “Yes” or “No.” Anything else comes from the devil.”
Don’t make a commitment that is beyond your control.
From Simtandile Dlepuma.
Stay blessed