1. A man must not break his word (1-2)

God is faithful to keep his promises. So God's people must also keep their word, whether it be a vow to God or a pledge to another person.

2. Some exceptions (3-16)

It is not always easy to keep one's word. It becomes more complicated for a person to keep a vow when he or she has an obligation to a spouse or parent. In Moses' day, a woman was under the authority of her father or husband, and he could nullify her vow. A person cannot ignore the consequences of his or her vow on others, so the law releases a woman whose father or husband decides to nullify her vow. Thus, the law emphasizes the seriousness of making vows, and the importance of keeping the vows we make. Jesus sets us free from the law. He tells us not to make vows, but to keep our word anyway--even though it might be costly. (Mt 5:33-37)

Application: Lord, help me to keep my promises, even if I lose a lot. Raise up faithful men for these faithless times.
One Word: God is faithful; we must be too