⁶ Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, “My vow was a mistake.” Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands?

²⁶ Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues^(A) deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

⁸ Watch out that you do not lose what we^[a] have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully.^(A)

² We all stumble^(A) in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say^(B) is perfect,^(C) able to keep their whole body in check.^(D)

⁷ “For the lips of a priest^(A) ought to preserve knowledge, because he is the messenger^(B) of the Lord Almighty and people seek instruction from his mouth.^(C)

Fulfill Your Vow to God

5 ^[a]Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.

⁴ or if anyone thoughtlessly takes an oath^(A) to do anything, whether good or evil^(B) (in any matter one might carelessly swear about) even though they are unaware of it, but then they learn of it and realize their guilt— ⁵ when anyone becomes aware that they are guilty in any of these matters, they must confess^(C) in what way they have sinned. ⁶ As a penalty for the sin they have committed, they must bring to the Lord a female lamb or goat^(D) from the flock as a sin offering^[a];^(E) and the priest shall make atonement^(F) for them for their sin.

¹³ their work will be shown for what it is,^(A) because the Day^(B) will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.^{(C) 14} If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward.^{(D) 15} If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.^(E)