The God Who Keeps Promises

Holy Scripture: Philemon 2:13, 1 Corinthians 1:9, Psalm 90:10, Deuteronomy 7:9

There's a tradition that promotes this theory: "If you have your fingers crossed, you can tell a lie without suffering the consequences." But unlike men and women, God isn't looking for a way to tell a lie without being punished. God never lies. He's a promise-maker and a promise-keeper. He keeps His Word and fulfills His promises--always!

Receive

"Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments" (Deuteronomy 7:9).

While there's no firm and fast agreement on how long a generation is, Psalm 90:10 says,

"The days of our lives are seventy years;
And if by reason of strength they are eighty years,
Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow
For it is soon cut off, and we fly away."

If we take 70 as a generation and multiply it by 1,000 that gives you some indication of God's continuing faithfulness in staying true to His Word?

Now, read again Deuteronomy 7:9 and answer the following questions.

    What does God promise in Deuteronomy 7:9?
    How many years would "a thousand generations" include?
    Who does He make this promise to?
    What is required of those who receive this promise?

Reflect

It is this same promise-keeping God who made our salvation possible according to 1 Corinthians 1:9.

"God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship [ Your fellowship with God's Son began when you received Jesus into your life.] with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (NASB).

    In the above Scripture to whom is God faithful to keep His promises?
    What difference has being "called into fellowship" with Jesus made in your life?
    Write out at least two examples of God's faithfulness in your life.

Respond

Consider your own faithfulness. Do you believe that God wants you to keep your promises? Is that hard for you? If it is, memorize the following verse that assures you that God is working in you to give you the ability to do those things (like keep promises or be a faithful person) that He wants you to do.

"For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him" (Philippians 2:13, NLT).