Yes or no

As a kid I would get so frustrated with my Dad when I would ask his permission to do something. Often he wouldn’t answer me right away. I remember one time I said to him why is it taking so long to answer me? It’s a yes or no question!! I will never forget his response. He told me that a great deal of weight comes when you give an answer of either yes or no. If I tell you yes and let you go do what you want and something happens to you I’ll feel responsible. If I tell you no then you’ll be upset and it will cause us trouble. As humans we make all kinds of promises and boasts. We say crazy things like, if I could just get this I’ll never do this or that again. Why do we feel the need to add so much to it when we can barely even stay true to a yes or no answer!! James 5:12 says above all my brothers and sisters, do not swear-not by heaven or earth or anything else. All you need to say is a simple yes or no. Otherwise you will be condemned. We don’t put near enough thought into what we say! We should never swear or make a promise! Just a yes or no would be hard enough!! Dad was right! If we take time before giving an answer and think about the consequences of that answer before we decide, then the only real answer necessary is yes or no. Father, your word is full of reminders! Today I am reminded of the fact that a simple yes or no is all I can handle and I cannot handle more than that. Help us to rely on you for wisdom even in the simple yes or no!!
Today is the day the Lord has made. Rejoice and be glad in it!!