THE POWER OF VOWS IS THE KEY TO LEARNING THE DHARMA
Master Jun Hong Lu: The power of vows is the most important element when it comes to the practice of dharma. A strong power of vows can overcome any obstacle, including those of our mind; a vow is actually a type of powerful energy.
You are asking where the power of vows comes from: it stems from compassion. When a person feels compassion for all sentient beings, and understands that he should feel compassion throughout his life, he will begin to derive power from his vows.
Source: Wenda20141212 06:02, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program