" WHY SHOULD I KEEP MY PROMISES "

A PROMISE: 1- a pledge to do or not to do something specified 2- ground for expectation of success or improvement 3- something promised. Moses reminded the people that their promises to God and others must be kept. In ancient times, people did not sign written contracts. A Person's Word was as a signature. To make a Vow even more binding, an offering was given along with it. No one was forced by law to make a Vow; but once made, Vows had to be fulfilled. Breaking a Vow meant a broken Trust and a broken relationship. Trust is still the basis of our relationships with God and others. A broken promise today is just as harmful as it was in Moses day. Oaths, or Vows, were common, but Jesus told his followers not to use them that their word alone should be enough. Are you known as a person of your word? Truthfulness seems so rare that we feel we must end our statements with " I PROMISE." If we tell the truth all the time, we will have less pressure to back up our words with an oath or promise. A person with a reputation for exaggeration or lying often can't get anyone to believe him on his word alone. Christians should never become like that. Always be honest so that others will believe your simple YES or NO. By avoiding lies, half-truths, and omissions of the truth, you will become known as a TRUSTWORTHY PERSON. Last Point: If you tell someone that you will do this or that then do it. Now if by chance you can't, then let them know that you can't but always be a person of your word. Until Next Time... Jim,