Numbers 30:1
“Moses said to the heads of the tribes of Israel: “This is what the Lord commands: 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.”
A vow is a pledge to God. The bible doesn’t mandate that we make them. The Old and New Testaments deal with them differently. In the Old, a vow is a type of bargain with God. It seems to be reserved for those who are very serious with God or those who want something greatly. Hannah made a vow to God that if she got a son, she would dedicate him to The Lord. Thus begins the story of Samuel.
The New Testament discourages us from making vows (James 5:12). Why is that? I believe it’s because God already wants to bless us with HIs best. Jesus’ death removed any hinderance between us and God. His blessings flow upon His own. The most we have to do is ask. No more bargains with God. Jesus paid the price.
Can we do anything to earn His blessing? Yes and no. We can’t earn it. Jesus provided the option for all of us to get it freely by accepting His forgiveness. However, if we obey The Lord, we reap the natural consequence of obedience. There are commands and advice given in the bible. It also states the positive consequences for this obedience. Proverbs is full of it. 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Speaking in a gentle manner will produce more harmonious relationships. One doesn’t need to be a christian to receive this positive outcome. Just following God’s advice gains it.
Lord, thank You that You pour Your blessings out upon us. Thank You for the bible. Thank You, also, that we don’t have to bargain with You. Your blessing is already there.