Should We Make Vows to God?

Today we're exploring a profound question: Should we make vows to God?

In Ecclesiastes 5:4-5, Scripture tells us: "When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it."

These words from Solomon remind us that God takes our promises seriously. Throughout Scripture, we see examples of people making vows to God—Hannah promised to dedicate her son Samuel to the Lord's service; the Nazarite vow set people apart for special dedication; and even Jesus spoke of the seriousness of oaths in Matthew 5.

But before we rush to make promises to God, we should consider Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:37: "All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one."

The heart of this teaching isn't that we should never make commitments to God, but rather that our character should be so trustworthy that elaborate vows aren't necessary. Our yes should mean yes, and our no should mean no.

So should we make vows to God? Scripture suggests approaching this with great care. When we make a commitment to God, we're not bargaining or negotiating—we're recognizing His lordship and responding in faith. The problem isn't in making sacred commitments; it's in making them lightly or failing to keep them.

If you feel led to make a commitment to God, first count the cost. Ask yourself: "Am I making this promise out of genuine devotion or am I trying to manipulate God into blessing me?" And "Am I prepared to follow through regardless of circumstances?"

Remember, God doesn't need our vows—He desires our faithful hearts. As we close, reflect on Psalm 51:16-17: "You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise."

May we approach God today with sincere hearts, letting our words be few but meaningful. Until tomorrow, may the Lord bless you and keep you.