He said he would give her anything she asked

The statement is presented as a result of what had just happened

She had to explain why she wanted it first

Think carefully before making a promise, especially if you may need to keep it under pressure.

Make strong-sounding promises quickly so people will trust you.

Add an oath to every promise so it feels more serious.

Delay every answer until the other person gives up asking.

If you would like to receive Jesus, pray this with me: Lord Jesus, I admit that I have sinned in my words and actions, and I cannot save myself. I turn from my sin and trust you. I believe you died for my sins and rose again. I confess you as Lord, and I ask you to lead my life in truth and grace. Amen.

Receive the Faithful Lord

Lord, awaken your Church to speak with honesty, humility, and care. Where we have made careless promises, forgive us; where our words have lost weight, restore integrity. Make us a people whose yes can be trusted and whose speech reflects your truth, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Renew Our Integrity

Bring these to God: gratitude for his faithful word; repentance for careless promises; trust that his promises are steady; desire to speak with the same honesty he shows.

Thank You for Your Trustworthy Word

Pray by naming one commitment you are considering, asking God whether it is wise, and asking for courage to say yes only when you are ready to keep it.

Before You Promise

Pray for parents, leaders, teachers, employers, and friends whose words affect others, that they would not speak rashly but would keep their commitments and protect those who rely on them.

For Those Who Speak for Others

Father, train me to speak truthfully and to mean what I say. Keep me from empty vows and quick promises, and give me a steady heart that follows through, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

A Steady Tongue

ὅθεν{HO-then###HOH-thehn###so that} μετὰ{me-TA###meh-TAH###with} ὅρκου{HOR-koo###HOHR-koo###an oath} ὡμολόγησεν{ho-mo-LO-yee-sen###hoh-moh-LOH-yee-sehn###he promised} αὐτῇ{af-TEE###ahf-TEE###to her} δοῦναι{DOO-ne###DOO-neh###to give} ὃ{HO###HOH###whatever} ⸀ἐὰν{e-AN###eh-AHN###(if)} αἰτήσηται.{e-TEE-see-te###eh-TEE-see-teh###she might ask}

Matthew 14:7 — FormalTAB

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