Talk is cheap. More promises are made than are kept. Ever heard “for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do us part”? These words are said before God and witnesses, but only about half the couples who take this solemn pledge honor it. Unfortunately, we are prone to make promises we can’t or don’t keep.

Today’s proverb says it this way:

Proverbs 20:6
Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?

Many people make promises. That is relatively easy. Making promises only involves words. But keeping promises… that involves action and, sometimes, sacrifice. Faithful people keep their word even “when it hurts” (Psalm 15:4 NIV). They don’t renegotiate what they said they would do. They know that their word is their bond, and they will do everything in their power to make good on what they promised.

Whether in marriage, business, friendships, or with your family, the believer is committed to a higher standard. “Everybody else is doing it” or “That’s just the way it is in business” doesn’t wash with God. So…when you make a promise, keep it.

Father, by your strength, may we be true promise-keepers in every area of our lives.
For Christ’s sake.
Amen.