The Tragic Vow
Judges 11:30-31 Jephthah was desperate to beat the Ammonites, so he makes a vow, that he did not think through, which led to a tragic event.
11/22/20252 min read
And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord, and said, “If You will indeed deliver the people of Ammon into my hands, then it will be that whatever comes out of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the people of Ammon, shall surely be the Lord’s, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering.” Judges 11:30-31 (NKJV)
Jephthah wanted a victory over the Ammonites. He was born from a prostitute and shunned by his brothers, and he was out to prove he was just as good as them, if not better. If he beat the Amorites, his tribe would have to make him their leader, so he makes a harsh vow. He tells God that if he is given victory over the Ammonites, he will sacrifice the first thing that comes out of his house. He didn't need to make the vow, because the Spirit of the Lord was already with him and he was going to win. After the victory, he heads home, and his daughter, who is his only child runs out the door to great him. Realizing the stupid vow that he made, he tears his clothes in anguish, knowing what he was going to have to do.
The story of Jephthah offers several moral lessons for Christians today. It shows the importance of careful vows, the tragic consequences of rash decisions, and the danger of misguided religious zeal. We do not need to make vows, because God is already with us. James 5:12 says, "But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your “Yes” be “Yes,” and your “No,” “No,” lest you fall into judgment." God does not want us to make rash vows. He just wants us to be true to our word. When we find ourselves in trouble, we tend say, "God, if you get me out of this mess, I will do this or I will do that." What we need to be saying is, "God, guide me through this time of trouble. I believe in you and know you want the best for me."
When you find yourself in a pickle, choose to go to God first. Start with prayer, asking God to guide you. Look to the bible for answers. Talk to your pastor or someone you trust. Don't make harsh decisions because they may end in tragedy.