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30+ Bible verses about making a vow Or breaking oaths

Breaking vows – it’s a struggle we all face, yet it’s often swept under the rug.

Did you ever pledge something to God, only to later admit defeat?

In this post, we’ll dive into Bible verses addressing vows made to God. We’ll uncover the weight of these promises and the fallout from breaking them.

“Better not to vow than to vow and not pay,” reminds us Ecclesiastes 5:5.

What’s in store for you? We’ll decode these potent verses, lighting the way for your spiritual growth.

By the end, you’ll grasp why keeping your word to God is paramount.

Are you eager to explore this eye-opening topic? Join us on this adventure and remember, your word is sacred.

 

Bible verses about making a vow [Or breaking oaths]

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5.

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When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.

Have you made a vow to God and find it difficult to fulfill? Are you grappling with the best way to honor your pledge to God?

If so, let this Bible verse about the significance of keeping vows provide you with inspiration and encouragement.

We know that God is honest and never deceives.

We also recognize that God steadfastly maintains all the covenants He has established.

If God has been faithful to you and has answered your prayers, why not fulfill your part?

Neglecting to take our vows seriously can lead to major consequences.

God is unhappy with us when we make promises and fail to follow through.

Imagine the ramifications on our lives if God’s love were to be withdrawn due to our unfaithfulness.

Thankfully, we understand that God is benevolent and does not hold us responsible for each of our shortcomings.

This Bible verse exhorts us not to postpone fulfilling our vows to God. It serves as a reminder that we were not forced to make that promise initially.

So, fundamentally, if you make a vow, it’s crucial to stay true to your word to God.

Nonetheless, we recognize that the enemy can unleash significant attacks on our lives and well-being. We might desperately seek God’s protection from all malicious and oppressive forces by making vows.

In your eagerness to make a vow, it’s crucial to remember Numbers 30:2, which stresses the importance of fulfilling our commitments to God, irrespective of the magnitude of our pledges.

If we seek God’s help in overcoming our challenges, we must also honor our part of the agreement when He answers our prayers.

Acts 5:4.

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Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”

Acts 5:4 underscores the significance of being genuine when making a commitment to God.

Often, people make pledges during difficult times, hoping to convince God to act in their favor.

However, God does not coerce us into making vows. In fact, it is better to refrain from making a promise if there is uncertainty about fulfilling it.

The Bible exchange between Peter, Ananias, and Sapphira serves as a vivid example of this principle.

Ananias and Sapphira experienced grave consequences, even death, for their deceitful vow.

Though God punished them for lying, They could have avoided death by simply not making a promise. God takes commitments seriously, and dishonesty in such matters can invoke His anger.

Consequently, it is crucial to thoughtfully weigh our words before making a commitment to God. This is so because once you make a vow, there is no option except keeping it.

Proverbs 20:25.

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It is a trap to dedicate something rashlyand only later to consider one’s vows.

Proverbs 20:25 encourages us to be cautious and think deeply before making promises to God, ensuring our commitment is genuine.

Never underestimate the importance of keeping your vows and promises to God. You can show Him your love and dedication by upholding them.

Always remember that God is with you, even in unexpected moments.

Without making vows, God can still deliver us from adversity and challenges.

However, there’s no denying the power of making a significant vow to God. Vows can quickly break barriers in our lives, and fulfilling them opens doors for more blessings.

That’s why Proverbs 20:25 is crucial when considering making a vow. Rushing into a vow without proper thought can lead to issues and potentially sinning against God. It’s wise to contemplate the importance of our vows and pray for the strength to uphold them.

Proverbs 20:25 warns us not to become trapped in promises we can’t keep.

Why commit to something we know we won’t follow through on?

Why make a vow and then not honor our commitment to God?

We must consider how a pledge will impact our connection with God and our daily life before making one.

Proverbs 20:25 serves as a reminder to approach vows to God carefully.

Seek His guidance, consider potential consequences, and remain true to our promises. We can strengthen our relationship with God and gain His benefits by upholding every vow we make.

Deuteronomy 23:22.

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22 But if you refrain from making a vow, you will not be guilty.

Reflecting on this Bible verse about vows can be insightful.

Is it a sin to refrain from making vows to God? Is it improper for a Christian to abstain from making vows?

The straightforward response is NO.

I have encountered difficult situations with seemingly no solutions.

I was uncertain about how to tackle my obstacles and hardships.

However, during those times, I persevered and refrained from making any vows to God.

That was a long time ago. But today, I look back, realizing that God has liberated me from my tribulations.

Even in the toughest moments of my life, I trusted god to act and didn’t make a vow. I remained composed, believing that God would provide a path.

It is essential to refrain from making vows when life’s burdens overwhelm us. We must be prudent and thoughtfully evaluate each spiritual commitment we undertake.

God will always be there for you whether you take a vow or not. This passage demonstrates that not making vows isn’t sinful.

We can be confident that God will offer us peace during troubling times if we trust Him.

Deuteronomy 23:22 underscores the significance of vows in our rapport with God. It provides advice on managing promises during challenging circumstances.

Abstaining from making vows doesn’t make you any less of a Christian. In reality, there is no requirement to make a vow to God whatsoever.

God’s support is not contingent on our vows; He will help us whether or not we make pledges. Deuteronomy 23:22 reassures us that not making a vow isn’t a sin. Our faith in God can provide us with the serenity and tenacity we require when faced with adversity.

James 5:12.

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12 Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple “Yes” or “No.” Otherwise you will be condemned.

This verse is a reminder to be cautious with our words and commitments.

It emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in our speech, especially when making promises or vows.

Instead of making elaborate oaths, we should be clear and concise in our words, simply expressing our intentions and meaning what we say.

I want to share a significant story from the Bible (Judges 11:30-40) with you about how making a vow can lead to unforeseen outcomes.

Once upon a time, There there was a leader by the name of Jephthah. He was about to face a great battle against the Ammonites. In his desperation, he promised God that if he succeeded in the war, he would sacrifice the first item he came across when he got back home.

God helped Jephthah defeat the Ammonites, and he returned home filled with gratitude. However, he was devastated when the first one to welcome him was his cherished daughter

Although the story doesn’t explicitly state that Jephthah sacrificed his daughter, it confirms he kept his vow to God.

Jephthah’s story serves as a strong reminder of the importance of making and keeping vows to God.

It also underscores the need for careful consideration before making any vow to God. This is because vows may have unanticipated effects that may affect not just our lives but also those we love.

Matthew 5:33-37.

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33 “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.’

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34 But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King.

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36 And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. 37 All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.[a]

“Matthew 5:33-37, a part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, provides valuable insights on leading a virtuous life. This specific passage emphasizes the importance of honoring commitments.

In reality, Jesus does not dissuade individuals from making promises to God. Rather, He cautions against swearing by objects or making oaths that may prove difficult to uphold, potentially leading to broken vows.

Jesus advises his followers to be authentic and truthful in both their words and actions, ensuring that a sincere “Yes” or “No” accurately reflects their intentions.”

Numbers 30:2.

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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.

The significance of this scripture on making oaths is paramount for our spiritual growth and salvation. It teaches us the importance of being mindful, sincere, and committed when making promises to God.

Before taking a vow or an oath, we should engage in thoughtful consideration and introspection, ensuring we are prepared to carry out our commitments fully. Once we have made a decision and given our word to God, it is essential to follow through with unwavering dedication.

We must refrain from altering our vows halfway to accommodate our desires or conveniences. Instead, we should hold steadfast to our initial promises, recognizing that our word carries profound meaning and responsibility.

In fulfilling our vows as initially pledged to God, we demonstrate our faithfulness, integrity, and devotion.

Psalm 116:14.

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I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.

These words come from the psalmist, David, who has made numerous vows in private to the Lord.

Throughout his life, He has seen God’s might at work, overcoming challenges and putting an end to his trials.

David is filled with gratitude for the strength God has provided him, enabling him to overcome the enemy’s plans.

Joyfully, he acknowledges that God has fought and triumphed over all his challenges.

As believers, we should adopt a similar attitude when God answers our prayers.

When we make vows and receive God’s response, it is essential to express our happiness and gratitude.

In celebrating God’s assistance, we must offer thanksgiving and rejoice wholeheartedly.

David emphasizes the importance of fulfilling his vows openly, in the presence of others. He is overjoyed and enthusiastically carries out his commitments, setting an example for us all.

Psalm 50:14.

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“Sacrifice thank offerings to God,fulfill your vows to the Most High,

Gratitude is a foundational element of our belief, playing a critical role in fostering our bond with God.

It is crucial to incorporate daily expressions of appreciation to God for His boundless affection and compassion.

By nurturing a thankful heart, we can evolve spiritually and strengthen our ties with GOD. This practice also promotes a heightened sense of humility and a realization of our reliance on HIM.

When we commit to a vow and request God’s help in surmounting obstacles, it becomes essential to acknowledge His contribution to our successes.

As we conquer our challenges with divine support, it is our duty to extend our appreciation and reverence to God. This expression of thankfulness honors God and testifies to His unwavering presence and impact in our lives.

To sum up, the act of offering thanks forms an integral part of our spiritual path.

Through daily expressions of gratitude and recognition of God’s involvement in overcoming our hardships, we can deepen our connection with Him, affirm our dedication to His purpose, and motivate others with our personal testimony.

Job 22:27.

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You will pray to him, and he will hear you,and you will fulfill your vows.

There is absolutely no harm in engaging in prayer and committing to vows. In fact, Prayer ought to be a regular part of our life.

It is essential to recognize the importance of continuous prayer, as it keeps us grounded and spiritually vigilant. The forces of evil are unceasingly searching for ways to lead us astray, and prayer serves as our spiritual armor in these ongoing battles.

We can rest assured that any malicious schemes devised by the devil are destined for failure under the watchful eye of the Almighty.

Upon offering heartfelt prayers and receiving God’s blessings, it is essential that we uphold our commitments and honor the vows we have made. Expressing gratitude and rejoices in the opportunity to hold true to our promises is crucial, as this strengthens our spiritual bond with the divine.

By consistently engaging in prayer and fulfilling our vows, we not only demonstrate our devotion but also reinforce our spiritual resilience against the forces of darkness.

Acts 23:12.

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12 The next morning some Jews formed a conspiracy and bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul.

Do not be tempted to make a sinful vow, for such promises are not in alignment with the Lord’s teachings. As explained in Acts 23:12, our vows should always be guided by righteousness and love for one another.

Avoid making vows that involve causing harm or taking the life of another, as such actions stand in direct opposition to the principles of our faith.

In the story of Cain and Abel, the Bible demonstrates the devastating consequences of jealousy and violence. Cain, driven by envy, committed the first murder by taking the life of his brother Abel. God wasn’t pleased with this brutal behavior; rather, it ended in Cain’s exile and a curse on his life.

If you have prayed and inadvertently made a sinful vow, know that our merciful God does not endorse or support such intentions.

Psalm 22:25.

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From you comes the theme of my praise in the great assembly;before those who fear you[a] I will fulfill my vows.

There is great significance in rejoicing and expressing gratitude for the Lord’s steadfast support and deliverance in times of hardship.

The Bible is rich with examples that encourage us to recognize and celebrate God’s incredible deeds in our lives. Psalm 22:25 urges us to acknowledge His presence and share His wonders with others.

The account of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt serves as a prominent example of this. After successfully crossing the Red Sea and evading the Egyptian army, Moses and his people expressed their heartfelt appreciation by singing a song of praise (Exodus 15:1-21).

In this song, they recounted the mighty deeds of the Lord, proclaiming His power and faithfulness.

Don’t be shy about God’s divine interventions in your life. Rejoice boldly and proclaim the goodness of God in your life.

Acts 23:21.

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21 Don’t give in to them, because more than forty of them are waiting in ambush for him. They have taken an oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him. They are ready now, waiting for your consent to their request.”

Prayer is a powerful weapon against the wicked, as exemplified in Acts 23:21, where a group of men swore to assassinate Paul. But their evil intentions were thwarted by divine intervention.

Scripture encourages us to remain steadfast in prayer, trusting that our living God will deliver us from harm and evil vows.

The story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17) illustrates the power of unwavering faith in God, as David’s steadfast belief enables him to overcome the colossal Goliath, defying all odds. David’s courage and reliance on God’s protection were his greatest weapons against the wicked foe.

God is our protector and defender. As Psalm 46:1 declares, Our faith in God’s power and providence will shield us from the wicked intentions of our enemies.

As people of faith, it’s vital that we consistently pray to combat the evil around us, trusting in our God’s unwavering protection and assurance of victory over our adversaries. We can be confident in the knowledge that “no weapon formed against you shall prosper” (Isaiah 54:17).

Amidst adversity and ill intentions, we should constantly pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17), putting our faith in God to thwart our enemies’ plots and liberate us from the grasp of wickedness.

Let the strength of God nullify any malevolent vows or oaths made against you. Through prayer and seeking divine protection, we can confidently maintain our faith, assured that God will never permit evil to prevail over us.

 

FAQs

How do you make a vow?

Making a vow involves expressing a heartfelt commitment to God, yourself, or others. This solemn promise can be spoken or written and typically focuses on a particular action, cause, or spiritual practice. Sincerity is vital when making vows, as you must understand the weight of the commitment and intend to fulfill it.

What is a vow in the Bible?

In the Bible, a vow is a serious promise made to God. These commitments often include dedicating oneself, possessions, or actions to serve God. Usually voluntary, biblical vows can be made by individuals or groups and must be honored once given.

Where are the vows in the Bible?

The Bible mentions vows in various places, such as Numbers 30, discussing vow regulations, and Judges 11, where Jephthah makes a vow. Hannah’s vow appears in 1 Samuel 1, while Jesus speaks about vows in Matthew 5:33-37.

What Psalm is about vows?

Psalm 116:14-18 speaks of vows, particularly the psalmist’s dedication to fulfilling promises made to God. This passage emphasizes the importance of honoring vows and thanking God for His support and deliverance.

Who in the Bible made a vow?

Several biblical figures made vows, including Jephthah in Judges 11, Hannah in 1 Samuel 1, and Jacob in Genesis 28. Each of their vows involved a unique promise or commitment to God.

What is the benefit of a vow?

Vows can deepen commitment to a cause, spiritual practice, or relationship with God, providing purpose, clarity, and focus. By setting a clear intention and dedicating oneself to its fulfillment, vows offer significant benefits.

What is a spiritual vow?

A spiritual vow is a heartfelt promise made within one’s faith or spiritual journey. Often, such vows involve dedicating oneself to God’s service, deepening spiritual practices, or committing to a lifestyle reflecting spiritual values.

What does a vow symbolize?

A vow symbolizes a profound commitment, dedication, and determination to uphold a promise or pursue a specific action or lifestyle. In a spiritual context, vows represent loyalty and devotion to God, oneself, or others.

What are the words of a vow?

Vow wording depends on the context and commitment being made. Generally, vows are clear and solemn statements of intent, outlining the promise or dedication. While some vows follow a traditional format, others may be personal and unique to the individual.

What makes a vow a vow?

A vow is defined by its solemnity, intention, and commitment. This serious and deliberate promise or dedication is made with the intent to fulfill the obligation. What sets vows apart from other promises or agreements is the gravity and depth of the pledge, often made within a spiritual, religious, or deeply personal context.

 

 

 

Author: Akatakpo DunnDr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Akatakpo Dunn

Dr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

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