Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Keeping promises is a fundamental aspect of biblical ethics and morality, reflecting God's own faithfulness and integrity. In Scripture, the act of making and keeping promises is closely tied to one's character and relationship with God and others. The Bible emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and reliability, urging believers to honor their commitments as a reflection of God's nature. Biblical Foundation The Bible presents God as the ultimate promise-keeper. His covenants with humanity, such as those with Noah, Abraham, and David, demonstrate His unwavering faithfulness. In Genesis 9:11, God promises Noah, "I establish My covenant with you: Never again will all life be destroyed by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth" . This covenant is a testament to God's commitment to His word. Similarly, God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:2-3, "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing," underscores His faithfulness to fulfill His promises across generations. The fulfillment of these promises is seen throughout the biblical narrative, culminating in the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive promises. Human Responsibility The Bible calls believers to emulate God's faithfulness by keeping their own promises. In Ecclesiastes 5:4-5, it is written, "When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it" . This passage highlights the seriousness with which God views promises and vows, urging believers to be cautious and sincere in their commitments. Jesus reinforces this principle in the Sermon on the Mount, teaching, "But let your statement be, 'Yes, yes' or 'No, no'; anything beyond these comes from the evil one" (Matthew 5:37). Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of straightforwardness and integrity in speech, encouraging His followers to be people of their word. Consequences of Breaking Promises The Bible also addresses the consequences of failing to keep promises. In Numbers 30:2, it is stated, "If a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he must not break his word; he must do everything he has promised" . Breaking promises is seen as a serious offense, leading to a loss of trust and credibility. The account of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 serves as a sobering reminder of the gravity of deceit and broken promises. Their attempt to deceive the early church about the proceeds from the sale of their property resulted in severe consequences, illustrating the importance of honesty and integrity before God and the community. Practical Application Believers are encouraged to reflect God's faithfulness in their daily lives by being reliable and trustworthy. This includes honoring commitments in personal relationships, business dealings, and community engagements. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often commends those who are faithful and reliable, such as in 1 Corinthians 4:2, "Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful" . In summary, keeping promises is a vital aspect of Christian living, rooted in the character of God and His unwavering faithfulness. Believers are called to reflect this divine attribute by being people of integrity, honoring their commitments, and building trust within their communities. Topical Bible Verses Numbers 30:2If a man vow a vow to the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. Topicalbible.org 2 Peter 3:9 Matthew 5:37 Psalm 89:34 Romans 10:9 Matthew 7:21-23 Hebrews 4:12 Library On those Attributes of God which have Some Analogy to the Moral ... In Our Outward Life Towards Men the Psalmist Also is an Admirable ... Promises and Threatenings The Fifth Book Promises to Speak of the Words Contained in The Keeping the Law; the Jews' Glorying; the Fear of Punishment; the ... The Third Rule Relates to the Promises and the Law... Of Prayer in the Name of Christ. He Promises the Spirit of Truth ... Keeping and Kept What is Your Word Worth? A Covenant God Resources What is the Lord's day? | GotQuestions.orgIs working on Sunday a sin? | GotQuestions.org What day is the Sabbath, Saturday or Sunday? Do Christians have to observe the Sabbath day? | GotQuestions.org Keeping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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