Judges 11:30–32 (ESV): 30 And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord and said, “If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, 31 then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace from the Ammonites shall be the Lord’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering.” 32 So Jephthah crossed over to the Ammonites to fight against them, and the Lord gave them into his hand.
Making a vow to God is a serious matter. He keeps us accountable to our promises. It is a sin to violate a vow, thus it's best not to make any vows. Check your motive! We already have God’s favor. No need to make unnecessary promises to God.
Jephthah was the son of a prostitute and a mighty warrior but he was rejected by his kinsmen. They drove him out of Gilead and then asked him to lead them in war against the Ammonites. The elders of Gilead promised to make him their head if he would fight with them. Jephthah made a vow to God that if He gave him victory, he would offer to Him the first thing that came out of his door when he returned home. The Lord gave him victory and when he returned home his daughter was the first to come out of his door and greet him.
Are you in the habit of making vows to God to get what you want? It's better not to make any vows and just put your life in the hands of the Lord. He loves you already. You don't need to make foolish promises to Him. Just walk by faith and follow His will and you’ll be fine. Amen?
Father, forgive us for trying to direct your steps by offering vows to You. May we trust in Your plan and walk according to Your will we pray in Jesus' name, amen.
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