Promises, Prayers, and the Power of Trust

"It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it. Do not let your mouth cause you to sin. And do not defend yourself by telling the Temple messenger that your promise was a mistake." (Ecclesiastes 5:4–7)

Over and over again, God has taught you to be cautious about making promises, especially when you are unsure if you can fulfill them. Even if something seems certain — even if the opportunity feels like it's already in the palm of your hand — there is always a possibility that things might change, fall through, or be delayed. That is why it is wiser to simply speak the truth: to honestly admit when you are struggling, instead of making commitments you might not be able to keep.

We all naturally hate seeing our families or friends suffer. We feel this deep desire to help them, to rescue them from hardship. But sometimes, despite our good intentions, we find ourselves powerless to change the situation immediately. It’s painful and humbling to face our limitations. Yet God calls us not to cover our weakness with empty promises, but to trust in Him openly and humbly while taking small steps of action where we can.

When we are unable to help as much as we want, the best thing we can do is to entrust everything into God's hands. He knows the full picture. He sees the needs that we cannot meet. As we trust Him, we must continue to act in whatever ways we are able, no matter how small those actions seem. A little help offered sincerely, wrapped in prayer and dependence on God, carries more weight than a grand promise that crumbles under pressure.

Prayer is our greatest weapon and refuge. When we cannot move mountains with our own strength, we can call upon the One who can. We pray because nothing is too hard for the Lord. He is the God of all mankind, the God who still does miracles, who still provides, who still makes a way when there seems to be no way. He asks us not for perfection or control, but for trust and obedience.

Let us hold tightly to His promise: “I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27). In every struggle, in every helpless moment, cling to this truth. Speak honestly, act humbly, trust fully, and pray boldly. God's strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He will finish the work He has started.