Every “Yes” Has a Cost

Rev. Dr. Lael C. Melville sits with four women around an outdoor courtyard table, discussing faith and encouragement during a Prayer & Perspective devotional titled "Every 'Yes' Has a Cost."
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Prayer & Perspective

Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Every time we say “yes” to one thing, we’re saying “no” to something else.

That reality invites us to ask an important question: Are my yeses aligned with God’s priorities?

Sometimes we become so busy meeting everyone’s expectations that we neglect what God has actually asked us to do.

We overcommit, overextend, and eventually become overwhelmed, not because we’re doing bad things, but because we’re doing too many things.

Jesus never healed every person in Israel, visited every village, or accepted every invitation. Yet He fulfilled every assignment His Father gave Him.

Faithfulness isn’t measured by how much we do. It’s measured by how closely we follow God’s direction.

A thoughtful “no” can become one of the most loving and faithful responses you’ll ever give.

“Let your ‘Yes’ be yes, and your ‘No,’ no.”

Matthew 5:37 (NIV)

Lord,

Teach me to honor You with my time, my energy, and my commitments.

Give me the wisdom to know when to say yes and the courage to say no without guilt.

Help me choose what matters most to You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

What commitment may God be asking you to release so you can make room for what matters most?

Take a few quiet moments to write your response in this week’s Companion Journal.

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Love,

Dr. Lael C. Melville

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Written by
Rev. Dr. Lael C. Melville

Founder, While You Wait Ministries