Read the Word:
Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
Meditate on the Word:
How often do we make the mistake of telling God what we intend to do for Him instead of listening to what He wants us to do? There can be several reasons for this. When King David wanted to build a Temple for God, it was out of great love and gratitude. When Ananias and Sapphira pledged money from the sale of their land, it was because they wanted the praise and recognition of men. How many have trained to be missionaries (or pastors) to discover that it is not their call.
What we promise in our ignorance may be completely different that what God has for us. It may be something that we are incapable of delivering. It may a a promise made impulsively, without truly considering the cost. We do better to recognize that God’s ways are higher than our ways and His wisdom greater than our wisdom. We do best, as the writer of Ecclesiastes points out, to approach Him in obedience. Not only will this avoid bringing guilt upon ourselves, but we can also avoid a lot of wasted time and effort in things that are not our calling.
Pray the Word:
Ask our Lord what He would have you to do for Him. Listen for the response.
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