Day 124 "Consider the influence and consequence before you make the promise."

Day 124 Matthew 14:1-12 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the report about Jesus and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.” For Herod had laid hold of John and bound him, and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. Because John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” And although he wanted to put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. But when Herod’s birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist’s head here on a platter.” And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her. So he sent and had John beheaded in prison. And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. Then his disciples came and took away the body and buried it, and went and told Jesus. Herod was a man who made a promise at a time when he was being wrongly influenced. You see, Herod was under the influence of sin at the time. Nevertheless, Herod knew that once an oath had been made it could not be reversed, even if it were a mistake. More often than I care to admit I, too, have made promises while under the influence. Be it pride, fear, or lack of prayer followed by waiting, we have all made promises that don't look so good in hindsight. However, a promise made should be a promise kept (assuming you didn't promise to kill or harm someone). Once I began to walk in true integrity, it became apparent to me that every word that proceeds from my mouth should be fulfilled; therefore, I am to be even more careful and thoughtful about what I say. Yet when you have kept the tough promises, the ones that cost you, it is only then that you truly understand the importance and effect of every word. However, if you are one who discounts promises made in error, I challenge you today to "let your yes be yes," and walk in true integrity, especially if it costs you! Daily Prayer: Father, may we never discount our words and our promises. Teach us to wait upon You before we open ourselves to outside influences. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. "Consider the influence and consequence before you make the promise." Pastor Gene Burroughs