“And he swore to her, “Whatever you ask of me, I will give it to you; up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist” (Mark 6:23-24).
Do not make a prideful oath. It is not that we cannot swear allegiance or pledge the truth, but that we ought not promise when we do not know what the outcome will be. You know this story. You know what is going to happen. Do not make a pledge that will trap you into sinning proudly and harming your ability to do what is right. Be led by the Lord alone and be on the guard lest pride cause you to act with unrighteousness.
Lord God, You know how many times I have made an oath that led me down the wrong path. I know that I am saved by grace. But keep me from making the same mistakes over and over again. Open my eyes to see more clearly so that I may begin to understand the path that is before me. Help me see the pits that are alongside the trail which may tempt me. Teach me how to be in constant prayer, seeking Your counsel.
Lord Jesus, You were in constant communion with the Father. You have told me to pray without ceasing. Guide me, Lord Jesus, so that I too learn how to constantly be in prayer. You are my Savior and I need to be saved. Help me this day to follow closely where You lead. Show me the temptations that come my way so that I do not fall for them. Through all things, aid me learn what it means to be righteous. Amen.
