EMPTY PROMISES
At the age of nineteen, I was introduced to a ground-floor business opportunity. The nice man who was sharing it convinced me that millions of dollars would soon be flowing my way. I couldn’t pass it up. I borrowed some money to fund my business venture, and prepared to rake in the dough. I’m sure you can figure out how this story ends. Within a few months, the millions of dollars I was guaranteed had vanished into the land of unfulfilled promises … along with the company I had invested in.
I imagine we’ve all swallowed the hook of empty promises; whether it’s a potential job, romance, or a time-share. False promises hurt. Our hopes soar, only to have them crushed like a squished grape. False promises are the devil’s playground.
Here’s some good news. God never breaks his promises. For one simple reason. “It is impossible for God to lie” (Hebrews 6:18). Read it again. “It is impossible for God to lie.” Unlike the slick salesman who lied to me, God only speaks the truth. Think of the amazing promises God gives us—his peace, presence, and purpose. We can build our lives on God’s promises, knowing they’re true.
Consider these promises God makes to believers in just one chapter of the Bible: Romans 8. There’s no condemnation for those in Christ (v1). We’re adopted by God, and share in his glory (v17-18). Our rewards far outweigh our pain (v18). All things work together for good (v28). Nothing can separate us from God’s love (v.38-39). That’s just a tiny sample.
I can testify, from my own experiences, that over and over God’s promises are a lifeline we can cling to in the worst of times. Unlike a slick salesman with selfish motives, God’s promises are always for our good. They’re a done deal. It really is impossible for God to lie.
Ponder:
When have you been deeply wounded by someone’s false promises?
How have you found God’s promises to always be true?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Romans 8.
“Father, I believe you only want what’s good for me. Help me to trust you more and lean into your promises in times of doubt.”
(Photo courtesy of Inspired Possibility)