New Year's Resolutions???

Entering a new year often prompts people to make resolutions, usually about some behavior that they will change, or take on, in the upcoming year. The definition of "resolution" is "a firm decision to do or not to do something" (online dictionary). Another word is very similar to "resolution." That word is "vow." The definition of "vow" is "solemnly promise to do a specified thing" (online dictionary). So, if someone makes a firm decision and solemnly promises to abide by that decision, that person is making a vow.

As believers, we must remember that God is listening to every word that we say and to every promise that we make. The bible teaches us to be careful with what comes out of our mouths: "Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. A dream comes when there are many cares, and many words mark the speech of a fool. 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. Do not let your mouth lead you into sin (Ecclesiastes 5: 2-6a NIV)."

Let us rejoice as we enter the new year. And be very cautious about making vows.

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