Keep Your Word

“The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD after King Zedekiah had made a covenant … that each man was to set free his [servants] … Afterward they turned around and took back the … servants whom they had set free.” – Jeremiah 34:8-11 NASB

God wanted His people to free their Hebrew slaves. Everyone seemed to comply, but some changed their minds and enslaved the same people all over again.

This is a pattern repeated frequently in our daily lives. We often make a promise or commit ourselves to a course of action only, for assorted reasons, to change our minds. We might find ourselves drifting back into old lifestyles or conforming to popular opinions.

To help us understand these patterns, Jesus told the Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15). Unfortunately, many people say they will follow Jesus, but find the pleasures of the world too tempting. Some are like those who initially “receive the word with joy” but have no firm root. These people “believe for a while” but fall away when tempted (v. 13). Many make promises, but when circumstances change, go back to their old ways. But some are like the seeds that fall on good ground who hear the word, “hold it firmly, and produce fruit with perseverance” (v. 15).

The Bible reminds us that God looks for people who keep their word and won’t compromise but remain faithful in every circumstance.

Think about the promises you have made. If you have failed to keep any promises, ask for His forgiveness. Submit your life to Him anew and ask Him to help you be serious about your promises. Be a faithful servant trusted by God, bearing good fruit.

Reflection Question: Reflect on the promises you’ve made recently.