"Promise-keeper"

When you get as old as I am,

You learn one thing for sure,

Folks will disappoint you,

Not all friendships will endure.

Some will look you in the eye,

And promise solemnly,

But then they somehow change their minds,

And don’t come through you see.

They do not take the time to call,

Or text to let you know,

But go on about their business,

And never even show.

So if you follow Jesus,

And have pledged to live for Him,

One important component,

No matter how you’ve been,

Is always say what you will do,

Then do just what you say,

Be the one they count on,

No matter come what may,

And you’ll shine bright in the darkness,

‘Cause unlike all the rest,

You walk in your integrity,

For God’s highest and His best.

Be a promise-keeper,

Make your word your bond,

And you will be remembered,

In this life and beyond.

“You shall be careful to perform what goes out of your lips, just as you have voluntarily vowed to the Lord your God, what you have promised.” (Deuteronomy 23:23, NAS)

The ancient law is still true. When you make a promise, keep it. When you vow to the Lord, back it up. There has been a huge erosion in this quality in our culture. Not terribly long ago huge business deals were done with a verbal agreement and a handshake. Now there’s a thick file of documents to sign and still we are exposed to litigation. The sad truth is that Christians have lost this integrity as well. It is challenging to find Christians who keep their promises, and when we do, we should value it. Be a promise-keeper and you will be exceptional.

Lord, help us do what we say, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Tim Cox, used by permission. Thanks, Tim, and God bless you.