“Above all, my brothers, do not swear–not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your “Yes” be yes, and your “No,” no, or you will be condemned.” (James 5:12 NIV)
How many of us were reared by parents who told us one time and didn’t expect to explain or repeat themselves? They said what they meant and meant what they said! They didn’t make elaborate promises, swearing on a stack of Bibles or anything else. They simply gave their word and that was enough! Many times, we weren’t happy with their finality, but it was easy to understand and we could depend on their word.
It seems like “plain talk” and “easy understood” is going the way of prayer and discipline in schools. Yet, James teaches the Church to reject swearing and simply say what we mean and stand by it. Note that he shows us the result of not doing so . . . condemnation.
No one likes condemnation. Yet, the Bible teaches that human beings condemn themselves by unbelief and personal behavior (John 3:17-21). So, we may conclude that others cannot condemn us, when we are living our lives in the light of Scripture. Jesus taught us, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32 NIV).
It would follow then that as the light of Scripture shines on them, disciples of Christ let go of the personal darkness and evil behaviors. We not only say that we are disciples of Christ, but we mean it and you can depend on us to live as Christ’s disciples.
Proclaiming our faith in Christ is only the beginning. Meaning what we proclaim is the next step. Truly following him is a way of life. Submitting ourselves to him — “walk in the light as he is in the light” — is a daily activity (1 John 1:7). Having repented of our old ways and life, we continue living in our new life until we have grown “to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:13 NIV).
Dear Father, thank you for your mercy and grace. Empower us to walk in the light of Christ. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today in your commitment to Christ,