Be Careful of What You Say in Your Moments of Excitement

[6] “But when Herod’s birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. [7] Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. [8] So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist’s head here on a platter.” [9] And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her.” – Matthew 14:6-9 (NKJV)

Have you realised that when people are overly excited, they tend to say things without thinking about what it takes to fulfil them? Yes, it happens. Many people have made promises during their happy moments, only to never fulfil them or get trapped in their own words. That was the case of Herod. When it was his birthday, he invited guests to come and celebrate with him. During that celebration, his stepdaughter danced before him and the guests, so much so that she pleased Herod.

Guess what? Out of excitement, Herod promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. She was a little girl, so she probably didn’t have a well-developed mind about life priorities. Feeling confused about what to request from the king, the girl went straight to her mother to inquire what she should say. Then, the woman told the little girl that she wants John the Baptist beheaded (see Mark 6:22-25). That request made King Herod feel very sorry because he greatly revered John the Baptist. However, because of the oath and the people around, he had no option but to grant her request. What can we learn from this?

Be careful of what you say in your moments of excitement. It can cost you more than you imagine. Please do not go around making promises to people without having the capacity to do it. You’ll tarnish your name, and people will pick up on your words. May God protect you.

You are a blessing.