Count the Cost Before You Commit

“He who is most slow in making a promise is the most faithful in performance of it.”

—JEAN-JACQUES ROUSSEAU

But above all [things], my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath; but let your yes be [a simple] yes, and your no be [a simple] no, so that you may not sin and fall under condemnation.

—James 5:12

It is very unwise to say yes to a commitment without really considering all the aspects of what it will require, and yet, thinking through something before we commit is rarely done. Something can sound exciting on Monday, but unless it is something we are sold out on and ready to invest ourselves in, by Friday it is drudgery.

Many people complicate their lives greatly because they say yes to too many things without counting the cost of what they’ll be giving up or what they’ll be adding to their already full plate. Often we speak out of emotions and then wish later we would have kept quiet. Sad to say, wishing changes nothing. If we want change, we must change the way we do things.

Do you really want to make the high car payment for five years just to have a newer model when the automobile you have is paid for and serving you well? Anyone can greatly simplify life by slowing down and actually thinking about what they are about to get themselves into. Before you make a major commitment, walk away and get by yourself for a few minutes. Let your emotions subside and then decide. If the desire stays and you feel it is right, then do it; otherwise, keep your life simple and avoid overcommitting.