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Bible Reading Plan

Reading Plan: 2 Timothy 2:20-26

In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

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Daily Devotional: What I Learned From Snowpants

“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made. ’  But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne.”

Matthew 5:33-34 

The package wasn’t at the front door. I expected a cardboard box on my porch, but instead the doormat lay empty. I opened my e-mail to see that dreaded word: delayed. I had volunteered last-minute to purchase a pair of size six snowpants for our school’s holiday giving tree.

I frantically searched online. A local store showed one pair of small snowpants left. I added items to meet the delivery minimum, paid an extra express fee, and went on with my evening, satisfied with my excellent problem-solving skills.

Later, my phone buzzed. The shopper had started my order. Soon, the text was followed by a notification: out of stock. My heart dropped. It was the snowpants.

At 8:00 p.m., I had nothing to bring to school the next day. I texted the social worker, explained what happened, and apologized. I wanted reassurance. “It’s okay, we’ll figure it out.” Instead, there was silence.

Conviction set in. I had volunteered because I thought it would be easy. But keeping our word isn’t always convenient. It was dark, cold, and late, and I was already busy with other holiday tasks. Still, I had made a promise, and the school was counting on me.

So at 8:30 p.m., I got in the car and drove to a local retail store. Thankfully, I soon found what I needed in the kids’ department. I’d never been so happy to see a pair of snowpants in my life.

God calls us to be people of our word. It’s common to hear someone say, “I swear to God” after making a promise, but using that phrase lightly is dangerous. People who keep their word don’t need to swear to it. 

God’s name is powerful. It’s not supposed to be used haphazardly. Swearing to His name after making an oath can make you appear less trustworthy. Others should simply be able to trust you’re going to do what you say.

I’m far from perfect, but I want my words and actions to reflect Christ. When we speak simply and keep our word, we show that we are trustworthy—and we help others see that God is trustworthy too.

Next Steps

Next time you are tempted to make an oath, consider the implications. Can you follow through? If so, an oath isn’t needed. If not, reconsider what you’re promising to do.