Our Words and Our Character

James 5:12 But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your “Yes” be “Yes,” and your “No,” “No,” lest you fall into judgment.

This verse almost seems out of place here. However, in it's context it is exactly where it needs to be. When troubles come, when tribulations and suffering surround us, that is when there is great danger of saying things we think will make the suffering go away. For example, how often have we rashly sworn that if God delivered us from a particular situation we would do "this or that" in return? How often have we broken that oath? The Jews were notorious for swearing oaths, both "binding" and "non-binding". If the oath was sworn in the Name of God, then it was "binding". James was warning us that our word(s) should simply be our word. He was saying that our character should be enough to reaffirm the words we speak and the promises we make. If we have to swear upon anything, then it says much about our lack of character. A born again follower of Jesus should be one who is known for the faithfulness of their words. To speak, to make a promise, or simply say that we will do something, and have to tag it with, "I swear on", is to set ourselves up for judgment on the day we stand before Jesus to give account for our words. For us, the believer, it could mean a loss of reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Let us be careful about the words we speak, especially when we are in the midst of suffering. Our reputation, as an ambassador of Jesus, should be solidly backed by a character that gives glory to God and makes it unnecessary for the child of God to have to qualify our "yea" or "nay" with "I swear on..."

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).