Proverbs 20:25, “It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider ones vows.”
America has a big rash problem… a “rash behavior problem” that is. From the White House to your house and from Wall Street to Main Street, people too often commit to things they don’t follow through with. Whether it’s in church, business, and relationships or in politics- too many people fall into the trap of dedicating to something rashly only later to change their mind.
The Old Testament way to make commitments was with vows (sworn promises) and covenants (contracts). The New Testament teaches that disciples should no longer make vows, because our “yes” and “no” should be enough without needing to swear by something else (Matthew 5:34). Today, our contracts might be made differently than in Bible times, but our need to keep them hasn’t. Take for example buying a house on contract, just like in Jesus’ time, people expect to get their money!
Here are some reasons I believe people dedicate to things without thinking them through properly; (1) They follow the lust of their eyes and don’t consider if they really “need it,” (2) People tend to lack patience and forget that the right thing at the wrong time is still wrong, and (3) We forgot to pray and consult with God in all our decisions because we sometimes think that God is only useful for “spiritual decisions.”
As disciples of Christ we should make every commitment based on God’s wisdom and guidance. If we take the wheel from Jesus, we’ll soon find out how fast our life can end up in a ditch.
Consider these ways to avoid rash behavior, (1) Learn to pray and consult God with all your decisions, (2) Always follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, (3) Remember, timing is important so be diligent to not move too fast or too slow, (4) Be sensitive to the peace of God in your heart, never commit to what you don’t have peace about, (5) Seek good advice before important decisions, and (6) Once you have committed to something try to keep your word even if it hurts (Psalm 15:4).
Avoid getting a rash by thoughtfully committing to things that are God’s best. Thomas Fuller said, “Rashness is the faithful but unhappy parent of misfortune.” You will avoid much misfortune if you just slow down enough to let God help you to make the right decision. Just like being rash leads to problems, wisdom and patient planning leads to success!
Reflection
Action
- Repent for any of the times you may have acted rashly.
- Ask God to help you slow down and make the right commitments in life.
- Only dedicate to things you can actually do in excellence.
