A Prayer to Keep Our Promises
By Laura Bailey
“Mephibosheth bowed down and said, “What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?” - 2 Samuel 9:8 NIV.
Have you ever made a promise and, with the busyness of life, unintentionally neglected to follow through? As a mother of three young girls, this happens more often than I admit.
- I promise to read the book later, but I get caught up in the day's activities, and by the time bedtime rolls around, I am exhausted; maybe tomorrow, I say to my daughter.
- I promised the president of the PTO that I would look at my calendar to see if I was available to help, but I became distracted, and the day in question passed. Maybe next time, I shrug.
- I promise I will read my Bible before I check my phone in the morning, but the e-mails that flooded my inbox overnight get priority. I’m sorry, Lord, I will try to carve out time later today, I whisper.
Most of us make promises to others and ourselves out of a genuine desire to serve, help, and show the people around us our love. But, then, life happens. Is it too late to “make good” on our pledges? Scripture tells us that King David was a man after God’s heart. God promises to bless David, grow his kingdom and offspring, and gain victory over his enemies (2 Samuel 7:1-16).
David was a busy guy! But, at the height of his reign, coming off a significant battle, David remembers his promise to his friend Jonathan. David and Jonathan vow to always care for each other’s families (1 Samuel 20). Many years passed since the death of Jonathan, but David still remembered and took action to keep his promise. David reaches out to Jonathan’s household servant, asking if anyone remains from Jonathan’s family (2 Samuel 9:1). Jonathan has one living son, Mephibosheth, who is “lame in both feet.” David brings Mephibosheth to his home, grants restoration of lost lands, and invites him to take a permanent place at the royal table.
David, the king of Israel, a man whose responsibilities were significant, not only honored his promise but went above and beyond in carrying out his pledge to Jonathan. As we look deeper into the text, we see how this points us to God and how He is always faithful in keeping His promises. We are like Mephiboseth; we have nothing to offer the Lord, yet, in keeping His promise to redeem His children, He sent His son, Jesus. And for those of us in Christ, we one day, too, will take a place at the Lord’s table for all eternity (Revelation 19:9).
So, friend, be encouraged today that there’s always time to keep our promises. From the seemingly small to the significant, let us be people who honor our pledges to others, ourselves, and the Lord. And when we fall short, accept the grace and mercy of our Heavenly Father, who always keeps His covenants.
Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, we love you, Lord. We are so grateful that we serve a God who is faithful, who is never changing, and who always keeps His promises. Lord, many times, we don’t hold our end of the bargain, yet if we are willing to turn to you and humbly submit ourselves, You are merciful. We ask, Lord, that you help us as we honor our commitments, keep our promises, and carry- out our obligations. And, Father, when we fail to keep our word, we ask forgiveness. When others fall short, help us forgive quickly, just like our heavenly father. We love you, Lord; we don’t have the words to express our deep gratitude for the gift of eternal life. Thank you that though we don’t deserve it, you sent your son, Jesus, to die so that we can live and feast in your presence for all eternity.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Photo credit: ©Ben White via Unsplash
Laura Bailey is an author and Bible teacher who encourages women to understand what they believe, why it matters, and how to apply biblical truths to their lives. Her recent book, Embracing Eternity in the Here and Now, explores how the timeless truths of Ecclesiastes help us live more peaceful, purposeful, and plentiful lives today.
She lives in Upstate South Carolina with her husband and three young girls, where she serves as director of women's ministries at her church. Her passion is teaching the Bible to women, equipping them to live with an eternal perspective. Invite Laura to speak at your next event or learn more: www.LauraRBailey.com
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