MEAN WHAT YOU SAY
But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.
Have you ever said "yes" to something, but later regretted it and wished you could go back in time and say no? Maybe because we like the ambiguity of not having to follow through with what we say. Or maybe because it is easier to put off a tough decision for a later time. Or we do not want others to know our true intentions.
“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:37)
Why is it so hard for us to say yes or no? Whatever the reason, God expects us to be clear with our words and mean what we say. We need to speak plainly, clearly, and truthfully so that we are not judged by our own words.
Does God really care about our promises? Yes, He does! As Believers, we represent our spiritual family by our words and actions. Our actions are a reflection on us and on God’s kingdom. When we make a commitment to others, we need to keep our commitment.
“Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.’ But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:33-37)
It does not matter whether we swear by heaven or not. The Lord is displeased when we do not keep our word. We need to be known for our yes or no to what you will do or not do. Honor is given to God when His people keep their word.
“But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.” (Matthew 12:36)
One day we will all have to give an account for our broken promises. It would be way easier to live and speak words of integrity. Speak the truth in love, and our actions will speak volumes to those who depend on us.
“Therefore, when I was planning this, did I do it lightly? Or the things I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No?” (2 Corinthians 1:17)
We should always live as people of faith who mean what we say and follow through with our lifestyle. We are walking testimonies of God’s faithfulness without saying a word. Let us start today with our words, so people know that our “yes” and “no” to the daily requests mean what we say.
Did you ever back out of a commitment? How did that make you feel? How do you think it made God feel?
Heavenly Father, as I am Your child, my heart’s desire is to have Your Holy Spirit lead and guide me in everything I say and do. To be like Jesus, would have my speech be honorable with my yes, to be yes and my no being no. I must be a person of my word, reflecting You in everything. I know my life speaks without saying a word, and I step back and ask myself, what am I saying? Are others really seeing You in me? I need You, Father, every minute of each day. I know I am a walking testimony of Your faithfulness without saying a word. Thank You for loving me and helping me walk in Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DO YOU NEED PRAYER?
WE ARE HERE
TO PRAY WITH YOU
What verse brings you the most encouragement and comfort? Share yours on our Facebook page.
We Are Walking Testimonies Of God’s Faithfulness Without Saying A Word.
Do you like our devotions? We reach over 80,000 people a day with our devotions.
HELP US
REACH THE NEXT PERSON WITH THE GRACE AND TRUTH OF THE BIBLE.
Even the smallest donation helps reach people around the world with the life-changing wisdom of the Bible.
E-PRAYER REQUESTS
WE'RE LISTENING
We believe in the power of prayer and the difference that it can make in your life.