But you promised

By Rick Warren

"It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows" (Proverbs 20:25 NIV).

Have you ever...

 Promised to deliver something by a set date and later regretted it?

• Volunteered for a job you had no idea would take so long?

• Agreed to a deal that looked great but wasn't?

• Accepted an invitation you wish you hadn't?

Eventually, we all learn by experience a basic law of life: It's always easier to get in than get out! The Bible says, "It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows" (Proverbs 20:25 NIV).

There are three common commitment traps:

1. The Money Trap: It's always easier to get into debt than out of debt! It's always easier to borrow than to pay it back.

2. The Partnership Trap: It's always easier to get into a partnership, or a relationship, than to get out of one!

3. The Time Trap: It's always easier to fill your schedule than to fulfill it! You can get so many irons in the fire that you put out the fire!

The solution: Remember what the Bible says—don't make rash vows.

In other words, choose your commitments carefully; think before you speak; under-promise and over-deliver. With this, you'll build a reputation as a person of your word.