We all know someone who broke their promise to us for one reason or another. Maybe some rescinded because of the inability to fulfill it and others due to insincerity; regardless, there was genuine disappointment.
The Bible is a book with God’s promises. God has not broken even one of His promises. Undoubtedly, we cannot proclaim this marvelous and remarkable feat.
I must admit that I’ve broken a few promises to myself, others, and God, but I have been faithful to many others.
‘I promise’ these are two easily and sometimes too hastily spoken words. Many times, keeping these pledges is not so easy.
What does the Bible say about mere humans, flawed creatures like you and me making promises?
Some say our word is our bond. If possible, we should not break our bond, pledge, or vow that benefits someone and our precious reputation.
One of the most important things to consider before making a promise is whether you have the means to keep your word. In other words, are there unknown variables that can prevent or sabotage your good intentions?
Ecclesiastes 5:5 (ESV) says, “It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay.” In other words, do not promise what you will not or cannot do.
Hasty or flippant promises could harm one’s trustworthiness.
It is good to remember that some promises should never be made, especially those made to take revenge. Payback promises to harm someone are un-Christian.
First Kings 8:56 (ESV) proclaims a testimony of God’s historical promises, “Blessed be the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised. Not one word has failed of all his good promise, which he spoke by Moses, his servant.”
God is our promise keeper. God is forever faithful in His promises.
Here are just a few of God’s faithful promises to those who love, obey, and trust Him:
2 Thessalonians 3:3 (ESV)
“But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.”
1 John 1:9 (ESV)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
1 Philippians 1:6 (ESV)
“And I am sure of this: that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
God is the God of faithful promises.
God’s promises of the past, present, and future about provisions, blessings, protection, salvation, eternity, and countless others are vows of love and faithfulness to converted believers.
God is the great Promise Keeper.
There is a way to qualify our promises.
I especially like and appreciate the way Paul expressed his promise to return to Ephesus. Paul said, “I will return to you if God wills.” Christians who are sincere about keeping their promises can likewise express them in this manner.
James 4:14-15 states that we do not know about time or what tomorrow will bring. When one speaks about tomorrow, it is best to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.”
It is often said, “A promise made is a promise kept.”
We can make a promise relative to how life and unexpected things happen to us by saying ‘if it is God’s will.’
Because of God’s promise and will, Jesus saved us from our sins.
Have a Happy Easter!
Be well.