“But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment” (James 5:12).
Is it a sin to make a pledge or a vow? There are many over the ages who have argued from this verse that it is. But look at the intent of the whole passage and what you see is submission to the Lord and His ways rather than thinking that you, in yourself, have power or authority. You cannot change a thing; so be honest and truthful and if another requires certain words to hear the pledge, then give it to them.
Lord, You have struck me to the heart. Am I honest with You and with others? Do I think I have power or authority? Guide me into right thinking so that I would now and forever be guided by the truth You have revealed. Help to not get caught up in word games, but to live according to Your Word. Lead me, Lord, in the way of righteousness and bring my steps into line with Your will.
Lord Jesus, You said that we are to let our yes be yes and our no be no. We cannot change a single hair on our head. Guide me, Lord, to live in the truth that You alone are the Lord and that I can do nothing to change anything. Lead me in the way of righteousness, for You alone know what is needed. Guide me according to Your goodness to see through the fog of this age and live into the truth You have revealed. Amen.
