Yes and No

James 5:12 (ESV)

But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation.

"Yes" meaning that you fully understand and confirm or agree with whatever the ask is. That you have the competence, resources and time. Also meaning that your intention is to actively apply all effort to ensure that the ask is accomplished.

To say a yes without all the above boxes checked is to lead the asker to believe something that is not true and set yourself in the company of liars.

"No" meaning that you fully understand but cannot confirm or do not agree with whatever the ask is. That you do not have either the competence, resources or time. Also meaning that you cannot not, or will not, apply the effort to ensure that the ask is accomplished.

To say a no without all the above boxes checked is a lazy answer and again, is not true.

Interesting that the scripture reference connects an oath to the simple yes/no response. An oath given implies a truth.

Another scripture that comes to mind is the parable of the 2 sons....

Matt 21:28 What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 And he answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went. 30 And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go.

Lastly, of a much more harsh demeanor, the prophet..... Deuteronomy 18:20

But the prophet, which shall speak in My Name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.