Promises Fulfilled

READ: Genesis 21:1

Katie, a four year old, went to school crying.  Her father had once again failed to take her to see the Disney movie.  He had explained to her on the way to school that he was just too busy at the office.  He told Katie that he would take her on Saturday...but Saturday came and passed.  Katie still did not see the movie.

Many times we are made a promise by a friend or a family member and the promise is not kept.  We are human, and because of sin, we do not always keep a sincere promise.  However, there is someone who continually remembers His promises and is “gracious” to His people - the Lord Jesus.  One example is how God blessed Sarah with having a son in her old age.  In Genesis 21:1 it says, “Now the Lord was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did for Sarah what he had promised.”

Just like Katie’s father did not keep his promise, we often realize that we, too, fail to keep promises.  A good example is seen in divorce statistics - relationships based on words of pledge that are then broken.  Things like this can depress us, but the knowledge that God always remembers and fulfills His promises to all people should give us strength to continue life’s journey.  Suffering and pain occurs here on earth, but we have the ultimate promise of eternal life with God.  This is the best promise that there is!

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: Why can’t people keep the promises they make?  What are some common unkept pledge words?  Whose promises can you trust will always be kept?

PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Pray and ask God to help you only make promises that you can actually keep.  Thank God for the promise of His Son to save His people.  Lastly, pray that your faith can be strengthened through hearing His Word.