Sunday, September 1, 2013

~ "No more nightmares, please???"

For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice is known by multitude of words. When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.(Ecc 5:3-4)

Nightmares.  Why?  It's been said that what ever we are thinking about before we fall asleep determines our dreams.  I don't know if I believe that, but I suppose there are many "dream scholars" who would disagree with me.  Solomon tells us they come from worry (nightmares, that is).  

Solomon also tells us to be open and listen to God.  We should accept what He gives us with gratitude.  Many are of the opinion that we can dictate what it is we think we should do.  

Solomon also warns us of empty promises made to God ("if you get me out of this one...").  A promise is a promise (so my children still tell me).  Promises are voluntary - we can promise to go somewhere, do something, buy something, give something.  It's when we break that promise, that vow, that we run into trouble.  It's often better to not to make a promise and to fall short than it is to make a promise and break it.  It is even better to not break a promise made to God.  Yes, God, through Jesus, forgives our shortcomings.  Imagine, if you can, where we'd be if when Jesus asked for the cup to be removed, God said "okay".  Jesus kept his promise.  We need to keep ours.

Be inspired to keep your promises.  Read the promises granted to those who came before us.  Read the promises that still lie ahead.  Pray.  Offer praise.  Be humble.  Be Christ-like.  Be HIS!