“Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.” Matthew 5:37 ESV
Recently at work, we’ve been discussing the importance of building relationships, cultivating trust, and even repairing trust once it’s been broken. The concept of team and our obligations to one another, the notion of actually doing the task when requested, and the need for social capital (relationships as a foundation) are emerging themes. Some of the conversation has felt very “chicken or the egg” or “necessary versus sufficient” in terms of which of those comes first, and which is a byproduct.
While I definitely have opinions on the matter, it occurred to me that the Bible provides some insight on how we should govern ourselves with other people. This includes family members, coworkers, lovers, friends, fellow volunteers, etc. It’s actually quite simple: follow-through and clear communication.
In this passage of Matthew, Jesus is providing advice to the crowd on a variety of issues. I can only presume that the early Jews had also experienced fractures in relationships and the need to repair trust because oaths were a thing Jesus thought important enough to comment on. Perhaps one farmer borrowed the yoke of another and never returned it. Or maybe a fisherman asked his friend for help and they did not come through. Maybe the temple aide was consistently late to assist with the sacrifice and vowed to be on time again! Jesus basically told the crowd there’s no need to swear by heaven or earth, or on your head; “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’” If we were to reflect on the people we trust the most compared to those we trust the least, follow through and consistency in a way that produces overall positive emotions are likely the source of that trust.
Jesus does not just stop at the need for follow through. He goes on to say that anything beyond a yes or no “comes from evil.” Wow! Imagine me reading this passage, and taking a moment to pause and silently converse with the Lord in my head, “Ok, Jesus, let me ensure I understand...I should only say yes or no? Maybes won’t cut it? Eek, does this mean non-responsiveness is evil too?” I’m pretty sure Jesus’ response is, “yes, yes, and yes.”
As you find yourself going throughout your day, simply let your “yes” be “yes” and your “no” be “no.” Be proactive and clear in communication about what it is you’re capable of doing. Acknowledge receipt if doing so will help put your comrade’s mind at ease. Relationships flourish when we follow-through and communicate.
Reflection
Am I simply a “yes” or “no” person? Which responsibilities to others have I neglected? Which relationships do I need to work on to cultivate better trust? How can I demonstrate follow-through and clear communication?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for the ability to say yes or no. Forgive me of the times I left people hanging by not being clear. Help me to honor You by upholding my obligations and responsibilities to others in every area of my life. As your child, let me serve as a model for building trust. Show me what I can do to repair trust in any broken relationship. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Photo by Dawid Zawiła on Unsplash
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