Sermon Central
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Keeping Promises Series
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Apr 12, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Promises are not just words; they are covenants that carry weight in heaven and on earth. As believers, we must reflect God's nature by being faithful to our word.
KEEPING PROMISES
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
"When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; for He has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed—Better not to vow than to vow and not pay."
Supporting Texts: Numbers 30:2, Psalm 15:4, Matthew 5:37, James 5:12, Deuteronomy 23:21-23
INTRODUCTION:
Promises are powerful commitments that reveal the integrity and faithfulness of a person. In both our relationship with God and with others, keeping promises is a mark of honour, reliability, and spiritual maturity. The Bible strongly emphasises the seriousness of making and fulfilling vows, especially when they are made before the Lord.
Unfortunately, in today’s world, broken promises have become commonplace. From political leaders to family relationships, many people fail to uphold their words. This trend has led to mistrust, disappointment, and a decline in moral standards. As believers, we are called to reflect God’s nature, and He is a covenant-keeping God who never fails in His promises.
This teaching will help us understand the importance of keeping promises, the consequences of breaking them, and how to grow in the grace of faithfulness. When we are consistent in our words and commitments, we honour God and build trustworthy relationships.
1. THE SERIOUSNESS OF PROMISES BEFORE GOD
God takes vows and promises seriously and expects us to honour our words.
a) God Values Integrity.
He delights in those who speak the truth and keep their word (Psalm 15:1-4).
b) Vows Are Sacred.
Promises made to God are binding and must not be taken lightly (Deuteronomy 23:21-23).
c) Delayed Fulfilment Is Displeasing to God.
When we delay or ignore vows, we dishonour His name (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5).
d) Promises Reveal the State of the Heart.
Faithfulness is a fruit of the Spirit and reflects godly character (Galatians 5:22).
Biblical Example: Hannah made a vow to God and fulfilled it by giving Samuel back to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:11, 27-28).
2. THE CONSEQUENCES OF BROKEN PROMISES
Failing to keep promises has both spiritual and relational consequences.
a) It Damages Trust.
Broken promises destroy credibility and trust between people (Proverbs 25:19).
b) It Brings Guilt and Condemnation.
The conscience is troubled when commitments are not honoured (Romans 2:15).
c) It Attracts Divine Displeasure.
God considers broken vows as acts of folly (Ecclesiastes 5:6).
d) It Hinders Divine Blessings.
Unfulfilled commitments can block answers to prayer and progress (Psalm 66:18).
Biblical Example: Ananias and Sapphira made a false commitment and faced divine judgment (Acts 5:1-10).
3. CHARACTERISTICS OF A PROMISE-KEEPER
Faithful people have certain qualities that help them keep their word.
a) Honesty in Speech.
They say only what they mean and mean what they say (Matthew 5:37).
b) Dependability in Actions.
They follow through with their commitments, regardless of personal cost (Psalm 15:4).
c) Reverence for God.
Their fear of the Lord drives them to honour their words (Proverbs 8:13).
d) Consistency Over Time.
Promise-keepers remain faithful even when circumstances change (1 Corinthians 4:2).
Biblical Example: Jonathan remained loyal to David, keeping his covenant despite the danger from Saul (1 Samuel 20:12-17).
4. PRACTICAL STEPS TO KEEPING PROMISES
Being faithful in our commitments requires intentional effort and godly discipline.
a) Be Slow to Promise.
Think carefully before making commitments (Proverbs 20:25).
b) Write Down and Remember Vows.
Keep a record to ensure follow-through and accountability (Habakkuk 2:2).
c) Seek God’s Strength.
Ask for grace to keep promises, especially in difficult times (Philippians 4:13).
d) Apologise and Restore If You Fail.
Admit faults and make restitution when promises are broken (Matthew 5:23-24).
Biblical Example: Jacob fulfilled his vow at Bethel many years later, showing commitment despite delay (Genesis 28:20-22; 35:1-3).
5. GOD AS OUR MODEL FOR FAITHFULNESS
God’s unchanging faithfulness inspires us to keep our own promises.
a) God Is Not a Man That He Should Lie.
His promises are sure and trustworthy (Numbers 23:19).
b) His Covenant Endures Forever.
He keeps His word to a thousand generations (Psalm 105:8).
c) Jesus Fulfilled Every Promise of the Father.
He came as prophesied and completed the work of redemption (2 Corinthians 1:20).
d) The Holy Spirit Confirms God's Faithfulness.
We are sealed with promises that will surely be fulfilled (Ephesians 1:13-14).
Biblical Example: God kept His promise to Abraham, giving him Isaac and fulfilling the covenant (Genesis 21:1-2).
CONCLUSION:
Promises are not just words; they are covenants that carry weight in heaven and on earth. As believers, we must reflect God's nature by being faithful to our word. Broken promises bring reproach, but fulfilled promises glorify God and build strong relationships.
Let us commit to speaking truthfully, promising wisely, and fulfilling every word we give—whether to God or to people. In doing so, we will walk in integrity and open doors to greater blessings and trust.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to be faithful in every promise I make.
