Numbers 30 - Contracts and Vows

"When a man makes a vow to The Lord or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said" Num 30:2.  Our word should be forthright and never deceptive as a follower of our Lord. There is no place for game playing when it comes to the integrity of our promises. We live in a world where people break promises all the time. Nearly 1/2 of all marriages end in divorce; bankruptcies continue to escalate; nearly 63% of all households have sub prime credit (primarily as a result of late or non-payment of debts). If ever there was a time when we needed integrity it is now. 

When we obligate ourselves in marriage, in parenthood, even in a commitment with a creditor these are solemn an binding commitments and we should do everything in our power to see them through. Even though the laws of the land allow for divorce, separating of parental duties or even a fresh start when it comes to debts, it does not mean that these should be our chosen path. As much as we can honor our commitments we should do that even if it should require some personal sacrifice on our parts. Wouldn't a little sacrifice be worth the maintaining of our integrity?  Not just for our own reputation but for the reputation of the one who redeemed us and gave us His life?  

Vows should not be taken lightly just for this reason. It may require more from us than we initially antiicipated giving to honor our pledge. We should consider both the best outcome and the worst when committing ourselves and go into our commitments understanding our responsibilities before God.

The chapter goes on to provide an escape for women under the leadership of a father or husband. If their father or husband hear of a vow made by the woman and do not say anything the vow stands. But if they should object, the vow is to be released as she made a rash promise. 

On the part of both spouses, it is important that we work to be on the same page and that we honor one another BEFORE making an obligation that is binding and impacts both. For the wife it will cause less shame in having to undo a promise, but in both cases harmony on the home is preserved when we consider our spouses. 

May God richly bless you as you seek Him and as you seve Him.