Connecting Point: Shallow Promises

Worship takes on several meanings in a wide range of contexts. As Christians, we need to focus on the Biblical understanding of worship; nothing more and nothing less. Our culture is inundated by “worship” experiences that embrace entertainment rather than reverence or wonder of God. Instead, we opt for a concert-like setting where we rely on the band to put us in awe of the music itself or the performers.

Additionally, there are unrealistic expectations intertwined throughout our society where people wish to be blown away by the music, preaching, and various ministries. If such an experience is lacking, many people move on to the next church.

A.W. Tozer said, “A church that can’t worship must be entertained, and people who can’t lead a church to worship must provide entertainment.” His words are so true today! Somehow, we’ve lost our way of what it means to be the church regarding worshiping in spirit and truth.

Solomon acknowledged this even in his era, describing a foolish worship practice. “Be careful what you do when you enter the house of God. Fools go there to offer sacrifices because all they do is sin. But it’s best to listen when you go to worship. Don’t talk before you think or make promises to God without thinking them through. God is in heaven, and you are on earth, so don’t talk too much. If you keep thinking about something, you will dream about it. If you talk too much, you will say the wrong thing. God doesn’t like fools. So don’t be slow to keep your promises to God. It’s better not to make a promise at all than to make one and not keep it. Don’t let your mouth get you in trouble! And don’t say to the worship leader, ‘I didn’t mean what I said.’ God can destroy everything you have worked for, so don’t say something that makes God angry. Respect and obey God! Daydreaming leads to a lot of senseless talk,” (Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 CEV).

The motivation and practice of our worship is subject worth discussion. No one particularly relishes the indictment of being a fool, but in truth, as humans, we often make some foolish decisions without really considering our actions. We should take heed to Solomon’s warnings.

The late 19th Century preacher Alexander MacLaren wisely stated, “Fruitful and acceptable worship begins before it begins.” How each of us approaches God, and the practice of attending church comes with great responsibility. We must be careful in making promises to God haphazardly. Why make a vow to God and then fail to follow through? If one falls seriously ill and in our trouble, we flippantly pray to God for an extension on life, promising to change ways that might be foolish talk. Or making a promise to God to never sin again, we could be a fool.

They say, “talk is cheap,” and I concur. Solomon serves up some humble pie and this is a sobering reminder for us today. God sees through our shallow promises, so it’s much better to be honest with him up front. “May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer,” Psalm 19:14.