Devotion
Let Your “Yes” be “Yes” and your “No” be “No”
Chipo Biti
Back in the times of the Old Testament, people used to swear by oaths in order to show how serious they were. Some would swear by heaven, others would swear on their own lives, while there were those who swore on God. The problem with these oaths was that they were often broken and people were condemned for being unable to stick to their word. James was trying to set people free from this bondage by encouraging them not to swear by anything - no matter how much they wanted to prove the gravity of their seriousness. He simply stated that it would be better for a person to answer with a "Yes" or a "No". Nothing more and nothing less.
It would be good for us to follow in this example too. People in this day and age also try to prove their trustworthiness by swearing on all kinds of things - including their mothers' lives. There is no need to subject yourself to such bondage. If you are keen on proving your trustworthiness strive to be a person of integrity by following through on your word. There is no need for you to resort to dramatic oaths in order to prove to a person that they can trust you. Things happen. Life happens.
In the event that you are unable to come through on the oath, you will appear to be untrustworthy. Save yourself the trouble and answer frankly. Let your "Yes" be "Yes" and let your "No" be "No". Do not create a trap for yourself by attempting to make vows and oaths you are not certain about. You are not required to do so.
Prayer
It would be better for you to stick to simplicity. It is far more effective than theatrics. If a person still doesn't trust you after you have given them a frank answer, leave it at that. Do not attempt to wind yourself in trouble by rising to their bait.
Let your actions speak louder than your words.
Night Prayer
(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
Inspiration
Our ability to manage a household reflects our strength in governing our church home. We need our spiritual affairs to be in order as we conduct business within our homes. We must show spiritual leadership when managing finances, making plans, or disciplining our children; because we attribute these same skills in the way we manage our church budget, coordinate events, or discipline those who wander away from the Word.
Prayer
Dear Lord, Thank You for the gift of a church home. We love our personal and spiritual family and will take the necessary steps to manage both areas of our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.