Foot in Mouth

Ready:

"But Peter insisted emphatically, 'Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.' And all the others said the same" (Mark 14:31).

Set

Detroit Lions wide receiver, Roy Williams wasn't the first person to "guarantee" a victory, nor will he be the last, when he assured that his Lions would emerge victorious against the Chicago Bears in week two of the 2006 season. Unfortunately for Williams, his comments ignited an already high-powered Bears defense to lead the way to a 34-7 thrashing of the Lions.

Peter was also known for being a little hasty with his words. When Jesus told the disciples that they would all turn their backs on Him Peter replied boastfully, "Even if all fall away, I will not" (Mark 14:29). The fact is that Peter not only disowned Jesus once, but three times that very night.

How many times have we made empty promises to God? "Lord, just get me out of this situation, and I promise I'll never do this again." "I'll read my Bible everyday, I promise." The Bible warns us in Ecclesiastes chapter 5 about making hasty commitments to God that lead to unfulfilled promises. "It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it" (Ecclesiastes 5:5).

I encourage you today to think through the words you speak to others and to the Lord, and then follow through with what you say.

"Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few" (Ecclesiastes 5:2).

1. How have your words gotten you into trouble as a competitor?

2. Have you ever made a vow to Jesus like Peter did? How did it turn out?
3. What is God speaking to you through this message?

Workout

Proverbs 27:3

Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
Matthew 12:33-37

Bible Reference:

Mark 14