Raising children comes with its challenges, and dealing with disrespect can be one of them. What does the Bible have to say about a disrespectful daughter? While it emphasizes honoring parents, it also encourages parents to guide their children in love and wisdom. We’ll look at Scripture’s guidance on how to approach and heal difficult family dynamics.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Divorce
What Does The Bible Say About Pledging
Matthew 5:33-37
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
This passage teaches us the importance of our word and the responsibility we have to fulfill our commitments without resorting to oaths or pledges. Jesus encourages straightforwardness and honesty in our speech, reminding us that our words should reflect our integrity as his followers.
By emphasizing the significance of our yes or no, Jesus reveals that our character and faithfulness are more important than making extravagant pledges or unnecessary oaths. We are called to be people of truthful and reliable speech, demonstrating the trustworthiness of our words through consistent action.
Psalm 76:11
“Make vows to the Lord your God and fulfill them; let all the neighboring lands bring gifts to the One to be feared.”
This verse highlights the importance of making and fulfilling vows to the Lord. It encourages us to honor our commitments and promises made to God, recognizing that he is worthy of our devotion and obedience.
By fulfilling our vows, we demonstrate our trust in God’s faithfulness and acknowledge his supremacy. Additionally, this verse reminds us that our faithfulness and worship may serve as an example to others, prompting them to bring their gifts and dedicate themselves to the fear and reverence of the Lord.
Matthew 22:37-38
“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.”
Jesus’ response to the question about the greatest commandment reaffirms the importance of wholeheartedly pledging our love and devotion to God. He instructs us to give every aspect of our being to God, not holding anything back.
This verse challenges us to examine the sincerity of our commitment to God, emphasizing that he deserves our complete and undivided love. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else and to pledge ourselves fully to his purposes and will.
Proverbs 22:26-27
“Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.”
This proverb warns against the dangers of making hasty pledges or guarantees for debts when we do not have the means to fulfill them. It cautions us to be responsible and thoughtful when entering into financial commitments, highlighting the potential consequences of failing to meet our obligations.
By urging us to consider the potential repercussions of unwise pledges, this verse calls for prudence and wisdom in financial matters. It reminds us to be diligent and honest in our dealings, ensuring that we take only what we can fulfill and avoiding unnecessary burdens and strife.
Ruth 1:16-17
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely if even death separates you and me.”
Ruth’s pledge of loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi is a beautiful example of commitment and loyalty. Her words express her unwavering devotion to Naomi, showing her determination to remain by her side and to embrace her people and faith.
This passage inspires us to consider the depth of our commitment to loved ones and to God. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our loyalty, even in challenging circumstances. Ruth’s pledge reminds us that true commitment involves sacrifice and selflessness, and it demonstrates the power and beauty that can come from such unwavering devotion.
Luke 9:61-62
“Still another said, ‘I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say goodbye to my family.’ Jesus replied, ‘No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.’
This encounter between Jesus and a potential disciple highlights the importance of wholehearted commitment and the avoidance of divided loyalties. Jesus expects those who choose to follow him to prioritize their commitment to the Kingdom of God above all other attachments.
By cautioning against looking back and being consumed by worldly concerns, Jesus emphasizes that unwavering determination and complete devotion are necessary for effective service in God’s Kingdom. This passage challenges us to examine our own allegiances and ensure that our commitment to God remains steadfast and undivided.
2 Corinthians 8:5
“And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.”
This verse describes the commitment and generosity of the Corinthian believers, who did not only give of their possessions, but also dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to the Lord and to supporting Paul’s ministry. Their pledge of devotion and support demonstrates their deep commitment to God’s work.
This passage encourages us to reflect on the level of our commitment in serving God and others. It challenges us to consider the extent to which we go beyond material giving and wholeheartedly offer ourselves to God and his purposes, seeking to fulfill his will and support his work in the world.
Joshua 24:15
“But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
Joshua’s declaration of commitment to serving the Lord is a call to make a deliberate choice and pledge our loyalty to God. He challenges the Israelites to consciously decide whom they will serve and to recognize the consequences of their choice.
This verse prompts us to evaluate our own commitments and allegiances. It encourages us to make a conscious decision to serve the Lord, choosing to prioritize his ways and teachings over all other options. Just as Joshua and his household declared their commitment, we too are called to affirm our dedication to serving the Lord.
James 5:12
“Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear?not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ Otherwise you will be condemned.”
This verse echoes Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:33-37 about the simplicity and integrity of our speech. It emphasizes the importance of honesty and sincerity in our communications, cautioning against unnecessary oaths or pledges that can lead to condemnation.
By urging us to speak truthfully and straightforwardly, James reminds us to embody the values of integrity and trustworthiness in our interactions with others. This verse challenges us to cultivate a reputation for genuine and reliable speech, reflecting the character of God in our words and actions.
Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
This verse exalts God’s faithfulness and steadfast love, assuring us that his compassion never ceases. It reminds us of God’s enduring commitment to his people and his faithfulness even in the midst of trials and challenges.
By highlighting God’s faithfulness, this passage encourages us to trust in his promises and to pledge our allegiance to him. It reminds us that we have a God who is faithful and who will never abandon us, motivating us to reciprocate that faithfulness by pledging ourselves fully to him.
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
This passage calls us to pledge our commitment to the Lord in all that we do. It encourages us to approach our work and responsibilities with dedication and excellence, recognizing that ultimately we are serving Christ and not merely human masters.
By pledging ourselves to work wholeheartedly for the Lord, this verse challenges us to view our daily tasks through the lens of eternity. It reminds us that God sees and rewards our faithfulness, motivating us to give our best efforts in all aspects of life as an act of worship and service to him.
1 Kings 8:61
“And may your hearts be fully committed to the Lord our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time.”
This verse, part of Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the temple, urges the people of Israel to pledge their wholehearted commitment to the Lord and to live in obedience to his laws and commands.
By emphasizing the importance of being fully committed to God, this passage challenges us to examine the level of devotion in our own lives. It invites us to reevaluate our allegiances and to ensure that our hearts are wholly dedicated to God, desiring to honor him in all our thoughts, words, and actions.
Deuteronomy 10:12-13
“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?”
This passage outlines the expectation of God for his people to pledge their allegiance by fearing and obeying him, loving him, and serving him wholeheartedly. It highlights the comprehensive nature of commitment to the Lord, encompassing all aspects of our lives.
By presenting these requirements, this verse prompts us to consider the depth and sincerity of our own commitment to God. It challenges us to evaluate our reverence, obedience, love, and service, seeking to align our hearts and lives with God’s desires for us.
Psalm 116:14-18
“I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. Truly I am your servant, Lord; I serve you just as my mother did; you have freed me from my chains. I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.”
This psalmist expresses a commitment to fulfill vows made to the Lord, acknowledging the significance of honoring these pledges in the presence of God’s people. The psalmist’s declaration to serve the Lord faithfully echoes throughout the verses, expressing gratitude for God’s deliverance.
This passage reminds us of the importance of not only making vows to the Lord but also of carrying them out in a public and sincere manner. It encourages us to fulfill our promises and obligations to God, recognizing that he values our faithfulness and considers it precious.
1 Samuel 1:11
“And she made a vow, saying, ‘Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.’
This verse recounts the pledge made by Hannah, the mother of Samuel, as she desperately sought a child. Her vow demonstrates her deep commitment and willingness to dedicate her son to the Lord’s service from birth.
This passage challenges us to consider the significance and sincerity of the vows we make to God. It reminds us that when we are in need or seeking God’s intervention, we can offer our heartfelt commitments in exchange. It teaches us the power of sacrificial pledges and the faithfulness of God in fulfilling his promises.
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
“When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of fulfilling vows made to God without delay. It warns against making promises lightly or insincerely and underscores the value of keeping our commitments to God.
By urging us to be true to our word, this verse challenges us to examine the integrity of our pledges and the seriousness with which we make them. It encourages us to honor our commitments to God, recognizing that our faithfulness to him reflects our reverence and respect for his authority and character.
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
This verse highlights the commitment of the early believers to devoting themselves to the teachings of the apostles, to fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. Their pledge to prioritize these spiritual practices demonstrates their dedication to growing in their faith and living as a community of believers.
This passage calls us to consider the level of commitment we have to our own spiritual growth and the support of fellow believers. It challenges us to pledge ourselves to the study of God’s Word, to authentic and nurturing relationships, and to the practice of communal worship and prayer.
Numbers 30:2
“If a man makes a vow to the Lord or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said.”
This verse establishes the importance of keeping our word and not breaking the vows or pledges made to the Lord. It emphasizes the seriousness and permanence of our commitments and urges us to fulfill them faithfully.
By emphasizing the significance of honoring our pledges, this verse calls us to examine our own sincerity and reliability in keeping our word. It encourages us to take seriously the commitments we make to God, recognizing that our faithfulness to him extends to how we honor our promises to others as well.
Psalm 54:4
“Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.”
This verse affirms the psalmist’s confidence in God’s faithfulness and provision. It expresses a pledge of reliance on God’s help and sustenance in times of need and challenges.
This passage encourages us to reflect on our own dependence on God. It prompts us to pledge our trust and reliance on him, recognizing his role as our constant source of help and sustenance. It reminds us that God is faithful to uphold and support us, even in the most difficult circumstances.
Genesis 28:20-22
“Then Jacob made a vow, saying, ‘If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.”
This verse recounts Jacob’s pledge to God as he embarked on a journey. He makes a conditional vow, expressing his commitment to worship and serve God if God provides for his needs and protects him.
This passage prompts us to reflect on the conditions we might set in our own commitment to God. While it is important to pledge ourselves to God unconditionally, Jacob’s example also teaches us the significance of recognizing God’s faithfulness and provision in our lives and responding with gratitude and worship.
Psalm 61:8
“Then I will ever sing praise to your name and fulfill my vows day after day.”
This psalmist expresses a determination to sing God’s praises and fulfill vows made to him continuously. It reveals a commitment to maintaining a heart of worship and honoring pledges of devotion to God on an ongoing basis.
This verse challenges us to consider our own consistency and perseverance in our commitment to God. It encourages us to pledge ourselves daily to worship and praise him, to faithfully fulfill our vows, and to live in a manner that reflects our deep love and devotion to him.
Psalm 89:34
“I will not violate my covenant or alter what my lips have uttered.”
This verse asserts God’s unwavering commitment to his covenant and his faithfulness to the promises he has made. It reveals his steadfastness and reliability in upholding his side of the agreement.
This passage reminds us of the unchanging and trustworthy nature of God. It prompts us to pledge our allegiance and faithfulness to him, knowing that we can depend on his consistent love and provision. It challenges us to emulate his faithfulness in all our dealings, honoring our commitments and promises made to others.
Acts 11:23
“When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.”
This verse encourages believers to stay committed to the Lord, true to him with all their hearts. It highlights the importance of remaining steadfast and loyal to God, even in the face of challenges and temptations.
This passage reminds us of the need for unwavering devotion and perseverance in our commitment to God. It acknowledges the transforming power of God’s grace and encourages us to pledge our loyalty to him, even when circumstances may tempt us to waver or compromise.