A Promise Is a Promise

Text: Galatians 3:15-20
Theme: God’s promise to Abraham trumps the Law
Key verses: “Brothers, let me take an example from everyday life. Just as no one can set aside or add to a human covenant that has been duy established, so it is in this case. The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed…meaning one person, who is Christ. What I mean is this: The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise” (v. 15-17). “What then is the purpose of the law? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come” (v. 18a).
What God said to me: Dwayne, good to have you back this morning. I’ve missed these times with you. You were purposed and sculpted to journal and write. That’s how I designed you. Be faithful to your calling and gifting. Everything you know and have experienced in your relationship with me came to you because of the deep truth of this passage. I made Abraham a promise, and I kept my promise. It meant the utter agony of watching my Son shed his glory and come to filthy earth to be scorned, persecuted, and crucified. But a promise is a promise. And I’m as good as my promise. I never change. My plan of redemption to buy back your soul and the souls of millions depended on my grace and my faithfulness to keep a promise. Thankfully for you, it did not depend on you obeying my laws. Where would you be right now if I demanded you keep every letter of the law? Would you be sitting in your comfortable home with peace and joy in your heart at this moment? No, you would be utterly lost and hopeless. My promise is my promise. I was faithful to Abraham and to his Seed. I will be faithful to you.
What I said to God: Holy God and Father, Faithful One. I am amazed by You. I sit in awe of You. I am desparate for You, to know You more, to serve and obey You more faithfully. I do not need more of Your blessings. I have all I need already. Thank You for Your grace. It too amazes me. I am amazed. (selah) Please fill me today. I claim Your Holy Spirit’s filling and Your wisdom today. I pray for every person involved with tonight’s program at Valley View. I especially pray for the Trego family as they mourn their son’s death. Lord, You alone are worthy of our worship and our obedience. No wonder You take our vows so seriously. To You, a promise is a promise. You’ve kept Yours. Help me keep mine.