Standing on the Promises

Based on his strong military background, Russell Kelso Carter knew what it meant to stand. Born in Baltimore on this day in 1849, he graduated from the Pennsylvania Military Academy, eventually becoming a captain and instructor. He came to Christ after struggling with his faith as a teenager. Then, significant health problems led him to believe in God’s power to heal, standing on His promises.

He also was ordained as a minister and wrote many hymns. In one hymn, he stressed what he had learned about trusting God. He described “standing on the promises of Christ my King.” Shouting and singing, He was standing on God’s promises, giving Him praise and glory “through eternal ages.”

These promises “cannot fail when the howling storms of doubt and fear assail.” He knew that he would prevail “by the living Word of God.” He was “standing in the liberty where Christ makes free,” and these promises enabled him to overcome “daily with the Spirit’s sword.”

By standing on these promises, “I cannot fall.” This meant “listening every moment to the Spirit’s call, resting in my Savior as my all in all.” Carter hammered home this theme in the chorus: “Standing, standing, standing on the promises of God my Savior.”

No matter what you go through, remember that God’s promises are eternally true. They are true today, and tomorrow. And they are true for you! You can stand on His promises.

If you are weary and tired, stand on His promises. If you are discouraged and overwhelmed, stand on His promises. If you are confused and need direction, stand on His promises. If you have financial or physical needs, stand on His promises. If you know someone who needs a touch from God, stand on His promises.

Never waver! Stand on God’s promises. He is faithful!