Courage to Keep Promises

Joshua 9:6–21 KJV 1900

6 And they went to Joshua unto the camp at Gilgal, and said unto him, and to the men of Israel, We be come from a far country: now therefore make ye a league with us. 7 And the men of Israel said unto the Hivites, Peradventure ye dwell among us; and how shall we make a league with you? 8 And they said unto Joshua, We are thy servants. And Joshua said unto them, Who are ye? and from whence come ye? 9 And they said unto him, From a very far country thy servants are come because of the name of the Lord thy God: for we have heard the fame of him, and all that he did in Egypt, 10 And all that he did to the two kings of the Amorites, that were beyond Jordan, to Sihon king of Heshbon, and to Og king of Bashan, which was at Ashtaroth. 11 Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We are your servants: therefore now make ye a league with us. 12 This our bread we took hot for our provision out of our houses on the day we came forth to go unto you; but now, behold, it is dry, and it is mouldy: 13 And these bottles of wine, which we filled, were new; and, behold, they be rent: and these our garments and our shoes are become old by reason of the very long journey. 14 And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord. 15 And Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with them, to let them live: and the princes of the congregation sware unto them. 16 And it came to pass at the end of three days after they had made a league with them, that they heard that they were their neighbours, and that they dwelt among them. 17 And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjath-jearim. 18 And the children of Israel smote them not, because the princes of the congregation had sworn unto them by the Lord God of Israel. And all the congregation murmured against the princes. 19 But all the princes said unto all the congregation, We have sworn unto them by the Lord God of Israel: now therefore we may not touch them. 20 This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the oath which we sware unto them. 21 And the princes said unto them, Let them live; but let them be hewers of wood and drawers of water unto all the congregation; as the princes had promised them.

Sermon Abstract

This message from Joshua 9:6–21 teaches that godly courage includes integrity, especially when it’s inconvenient. Though Joshua and Israel were deceived by the Gibeonites, they honored their promise because they made it before the Lord. Believers today are reminded that keeping our word reflects God’s faithfulness and strengthens our witness in a deceptive world.

Introduction

Have you ever had someone break a promise to you? Maybe it was a friend who said they'd be there—but didn’t show up. Or a company that promised a refund—but never followed through. Or maybe it was more personal—someone said, "I’ll never leave you"—but they did. Most of us know what it feels like to be disappointed by broken words.

Now flip the script. Have you ever made a promise you wish you hadn’t? You agreed too quickly, signed without reading, or gave your word in the moment—only to realize later it would cost you more than you expected. In those moments, the question becomes: Will I do what I said, even if it’s hard?

That’s where we find Joshua and the people of God in Joshua 9. They made a promise to the Gibeonites—a promise based on a lie. But even when the truth came out, Joshua chose to honor his word. Why? Because he knew something we must never forget: keeping your word isn’t about how you feel—it’s about who you represent. When we walk with God, our integrity is a reflection of His name.

Historical and Theological Context (Expanded)

The events in Joshua 9 take place after Israel’s miraculous victories at Jericho and Ai. Word of God’s power had spread across Canaan, striking fear into its inhabitants. The Gibeonites, realizing they couldn’t win by force, chose to deceive instead. They posed as weary travelers from a distant land and convinced Joshua and the elders of Israel to make a covenant of peace with them. The critical failure is found in verse 14—“they asked not counsel at the mouth of the LORD.” Though the covenant was made in ignorance, it was still binding because it had been made in the name of the LORD.

This moment brings into focus the seriousness of covenants in Scripture. In biblical theology, a covenant is not just a contract or casual agreement. It is a sacred promise made before God, often sealed by an oath, a sign, or a sacrifice. To break a covenant was to invite divine judgment, and to keep a covenant—especially when difficult—was a sign of righteousness and spiritual maturity.

Biblical Importance of Covenants

God Relates to His People Through Covenants

From Genesis to Revelation, God uses covenants to initiate, define, and preserve His relationship with humanity.

Genesis 9 – God made a covenant with Noah, promising never again to flood the earth, sealed with the sign of the rainbow.

Genesis 12, 15, 17 – God made a covenant with Abraham, promising descendants, land, and blessing to all nations through his seed.

Exodus 19–24 – God made a covenant with Israel at Sinai, establishing the Law as their governing guide and confirming their identity as His people.

2 Samuel 7 – God made a covenant with David, promising an everlasting kingdom through his lineage—a covenant ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

Jeremiah 31:31–34 – God promised a New Covenant, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, where His law would be written on our hearts.

Covenants Were Made in God’s Name and Before Witnesses

Covenants were not private promises; they were public, spiritual declarations invoking God’s holiness. To violate one was to violate the name of God.

Joshua 9:19 – “We have sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel: now therefore we may not touch them.”

God Honors Covenant-Keepers, Even When It Hurts

Psalm 15:4 says the righteous man is one “that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.”

David honored his covenant with Jonathan by protecting Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9), even after Jonathan’s death.

God Judges Covenant-Breaking

Ezekiel 17:15–20 – God rebuked Judah’s king for breaking a covenant made with Babylon, emphasizing that even political covenants made in God’s name were spiritually binding.

Malachi 2:14–16 – God confronts the priests and people of Judah for breaking the marriage covenant with their wives, showing that unfaithfulness to a covenant is unfaithfulness to God Himself.

Jesus Is the Mediator of the New Covenant

Hebrews 9:15 – “And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament [covenant], that by means of death… they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.”

The New Covenant is sealed with the blood of Jesus (Luke 22:20), and it is unbreakable, because it is secured by God’s own Son.

In Joshua 9, we see that even when a covenant is made in error, God expects His people to honor it, because it bears His name. Israel’s leaders understood this principle and refused to violate the oath, even under public pressure. That kind of integrity is rare—but it is precisely what reflects the character of our covenant-keeping God.

I. Concealing Disguises and Costly Decisions (Joshua 9:1–9)

When Israel moved in obedience, the enemy moved in opposition. But this time, the opposition didn’t come with weapons—it came in disguise. The Gibeonites didn't confront Israel with force—they came dressed in false humility and wrapped in lies. Be careful! Every threat doesn't look like an enemy. Some threats look like opportunities!

This passage warns us that deception doesn’t always knock loudly—it sometimes whispers softly. And when we’re not walking in spiritual discernment, we can make decisions that will cost us years of difficulty.

A. Sinister Plots (Joshua 9:1)

“And it came to pass, when all the kings which were on this side Jordan... heard thereof.” (Joshua 9:1)

Theological Explanation:

As news of Israel’s victories spread, the surrounding kings began plotting. These weren't just political alliances—they were united in rebellion against the move of God. Whenever God’s people walk in purpose, the enemy begins to unite against them. These kings didn’t agree on much, but they agreed to stop what God was doing.

This is a picture of satanic collaboration—when enemies come together not because they love each other, but because they hate the move of God. Psalm 27:1–2 “1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, They stumbled and fell.”

The enemy sees your victory, your momentum, your progress—and tries to slow you down by any means necessary.

Pastoral Exhortation:

My brothers and sisters, when the hand of the Lord is moving in your life, expect the enemy to plot against you. But don’t panic—just remember that no weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Just because they’re plotting doesn’t mean they’ll prevail.

Be cautious of spiritual attacks that come not through warfare—but through whispers, rumors, and hidden traps.Some people aren’t bothered by your praise—they’re bothered by your progress.

KJV Cross-References:

Psalm 2:2 – “The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD.”

Nehemiah 4:8 – “And conspired all of them together to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it.”

Isaiah 8:10 – “Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought… for God is with us.”

Psalm 83:5 – “For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederate against thee.”

Acts 4:27–28 – “Both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles… were gathered together against thy holy child Jesus.”

B. Secretive Plans (Joshua 9:2–6)

“They gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord... They did work wilily, and went and made as if they had been ambassadors…” (vv. 2, 4)

Theological Explanation:

Rather than engaging Israel directly, the Gibeonites relied on crafty manipulation. Verse 4 says, “They did work wilily”—a Hebrew phrase meaning they acted with cunning, like a snake in the garden. They disguised themselves as ambassadors from afar to gain peace under false pretenses. The enemy couldn’t beat Israel in battle, so he tried to bind them in deception.

This tactic reflects the very nature of Satan: he’s not just a tempter—he’s a deceiver. He doesn’t always come roaring like a lion; sometimes he comes smiling like a friend. The Gibeonites’ success was not because of their strength—but because of Israel’s lack of spiritual discernment.

Pastoral Exhortation:

Church, don’t be fooled by appearances. Every “open door” isn’t from God. Every smiling face isn’t sent by heaven. The devil dresses up his schemes in good intentions, but they’re laced with destruction.

Some people are not what they look like—and if you don’t pray, you’ll partner with people who poison your purpose.Just because something “feels right” doesn’t mean it is right. Be careful what you agree to when you’re tired, flattered, or desperate.

Application Points:

1. Discernment is Critical

Explanation: The Spirit of God gives discernment so that we don’t get swept away by smooth talk, emotional appeal, or surface appearances. Discernment helps you see beyond what people show you. It’s the ability to ask, “Is this of God?” before you sign the dotted line or say, “I do.”

Illustration: Think of how banks teach their employees to detect counterfeit bills—not by studying fakes, but by mastering the real thing. The more time you spend with the truth, the easier it is to spot a lie.

Preaching Insight:

You need discernment before you pick your friends, before you take that job, before you date that person, before you say yes to that business deal!

"If you only go by what you see, you'll miss what God is trying to show you!"

2. Delay Before Deciding

Explanation: God is not in a rush. Impulsive decisions lead to painful consequences. The Gibeonites pressured Israel to act quickly. Be suspicious of anyone who says, “Decide now!” but won’t let you pray. The devil rushes—but God gives peace.

Illustration: Have you ever rushed to buy something just because it was “on sale,” and later realized it wasn’t worth the cost? Spiritually, the same thing happens when you don’t wait for God’s confirmation.

Preaching Insight:

"Every good thing ain’t a God thing—and if it can’t wait for God, it’s not from God!"

3. Devotion to God’s Word Must Guide You

Explanation: Israel failed to consult the Lord before making the treaty. No prayer, no word, no altar—just decision. The Bible must be your filter before you make any major move in life.

Illustration: Your GPS will take you off course if it’s not updated. Likewise, your heart and mind must stay synced to Scripture so you can be guided in truth.

Preaching Insight:

"Don’t make a life decision off of feelings—make it off of the Word!"

"You don’t need a sign from man when you have a word from God!"

Exhortative Preaching Quotes to Stir the Congregation:

“Just because it looks like bread, doesn’t mean it’s fresh—some blessings come with mold on them!”

“The enemy doesn’t always fight you head-on—sometimes he smiles, shakes your hand, and signs a deal!”

“Don’t trust the robe and the sandals—check the source and seek the Savior!”

“God will always show you the truth, but you’ve got to want His voice more than your comfort.”

“It takes no courage to say yes—but it takes godly courage to wait for God!”

KJV Cross-References:

Genesis 3:1 – “Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field…”

2 Corinthians 11:14 – “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”

Proverbs 26:24–26 – “He that hateth dissembleth with his lips…”

Ephesians 6:11 – “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”

Matthew 7:15 – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”

II. Disregarding God’s Direction Leads to Problems

(Joshua 9:7–15)

Sometimes the worst decisions in life don’t come from being rebellious—they come from being negligent. Joshua and the elders of Israel weren’t trying to disobey God—they just failed to consult Him. They were so focused on the opportunity in front of them that they didn’t pause to pray, discern, or wait.

This section of the text is not just about deception from the outside—it’s about disregard from the inside. It teaches us that spiritual failure often starts with spiritual assumptions. When we don’t invite God into the decision-making process, we open the door for consequences we weren’t ready for.

A. They Listened to the Enemy’s Lies (Joshua 9:7–13)

Joshua 9:7–13 KJV 1900

7 And the men of Israel said unto the Hivites, Peradventure ye dwell among us; and how shall we make a league with you? 8 And they said unto Joshua, We are thy servants. And Joshua said unto them, Who are ye? and from whence come ye? 9 And they said unto him, From a very far country thy servants are come because of the name of the Lord thy God: for we have heard the fame of him, and all that he did in Egypt, 10 And all that he did to the two kings of the Amorites, that were beyond Jordan, to Sihon king of Heshbon, and to Og king of Bashan, which was at Ashtaroth. 11 Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We are your servants: therefore now make ye a league with us. 12 This our bread we took hot for our provision out of our houses on the day we came forth to go unto you; but now, behold, it is dry, and it is mouldy: 13 And these bottles of wine, which we filled, were new; and, behold, they be rent: and these our garments and our shoes are become old by reason of the very long journey.

“And the men of Israel said unto the Hivites, Peradventure ye dwell among us; and how shall we make a league with you?... And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the LORD.”(Joshua 9:7, 14)

Theological Explanation:

Joshua and the leaders questioned the Gibeonites, but they didn’t verify. They suspected something was off—but they moved forward anyway. The Gibeonites’ story was well-rehearsed: dusty clothes, dry bread, worn shoes. It all looked pitiful—but it was a performance.

The real issue wasn’t that the Gibeonites lied—it was that Israel believed them without divine confirmation. They trusted what they saw more than what they sought from the Lord. They were duped by emotion instead of being guided by revelation.

This reminds us that Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44), and deception is one of his oldest and most effective strategies. He lies about people, opportunities, relationships, and outcomes. And if we’re not grounded in prayer and the Word, we’ll fall for it—every time.

Pastoral Exhortation:

Listen: Just because something looks like a blessing doesn't mean it came from the Blessed One. Some of us have signed contracts, entered relationships, taken jobs, or made life-altering decisions based on emotional appeal—not spiritual clarity. The enemy knows how to dress up deception to look like destiny.

Beloved, don’t trust appearances—trust the anointing. Don’t go by feelings—go by faith. Learn to say: “That sounds good, but I’ve got to talk to God first.”

KJV Cross-References:

Proverbs 14:12 — “12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, But the end thereof are the ways of death.”  

1 John 4:1 — “1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”  

2 Corinthians 11:13–14 —n“13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”  

Matthew 24:24 — “24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”  

John 8:44 — “44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.”

B. They Left God Out of Their Decisions (Joshua 9:14–15)

Joshua 9:14–15 KJV 1900

14 And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord. 15 And Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with them, to let them live: and the princes of the congregation sware unto them.

“And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the LORD. And Joshua made peace with them...” (vv. 14–15)

Theological Explanation:

This is the turning point of the chapter. The failure wasn’t just in the agreement—it was in the absence of consultation.The text is clear: “they asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord.” They were so impressed by the presentation that they didn’t seek divine instruction.

This moment exposes a dangerous tendency in all of us: the assumption that we can handle certain decisions on our own. We may pray about big storms, but we skip prayer in small steps. But what seems like a minor agreement can result in a major crisis when we leave God out of the conversation.

Joshua made peace and entered a covenant—without God’s approval. And though he had good intentions, he lacked spiritual direction.

Pastoral Exhortation:

How many of us have made peace with something God never approved? How many friendships, finances, and futures have been entangled because we didn’t pause and pray?

If you don’t ask God first, don’t be surprised when you have to ask Him to fix it later. Don’t just consult Him when things go wrong—invite Him before anything goes wrong.

If Jesus could pray all night before choosing His disciples (Luke 6:12), what makes us think we can make life decisions without prayer?

KJV Cross-References:

Proverbs 3:5–6 — “5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.”  

James 1:5 - “5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”  

Psalm 32:8 - “8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.”  

Isaiah 30:1 - “1 Woe to the rebellious children, saith the Lord, That take counsel, but not of me; And that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, That they may add sin to sin:”  

Luke 6:12 - “12 And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”  

1. Prayer Before Decisions

One of the most dangerous assumptions believers make is that familiarity with God’s past workings means we can proceed without fresh direction. The leaders of Israel assumed this was just another leadership moment. But the text says in Joshua 9:14, “they asked not counsel at the mouth of the LORD.” They stepped into diplomacy without divine discussion.

Hear this: failing to pray is not just neglect—it is arrogance. When we act without prayer, we say to God, “I’ve got this one.” But prayer isn’t just about getting what we want—it’s about aligning with what God wills. Prayer reveals motives, protects from deception, and invites divine clarity into cloudy situations.

Illustration:

A young woman receives a dream job offer. The salary is double, the office has windows, and the benefits are stacked. Everything in her flesh says “yes.” But when she prays, there’s a lack of peace. She waits, and two weeks later, the company is exposed in a national scandal. Prayer didn’t delay her destiny—it preserved her integrity.

Preaching Exhortation Quotes:

“Prayer is not a formality—it’s your lifeline to divine clarity!”

“Every closed eye ain’t praying—and every decision made without prayer is a setup for regret.”

“You prayed for the breakthrough—now pray before you take the next step!”

2. Patience Before Commitment

Joshua 9 reveals how the enemy manipulates timing. The Gibeonites pressured Israel to move quickly. They said, “We’ve come from a far country…” (v. 6) and hurried the conversation to close the deal. Why the rush? Because time exposes lies and patience reveals truth. That’s why the devil hates it when you slow down—because patience makes space for discernment.

Many of us have ruined good futures with rushed decisions. We married too soon, partnered too quickly, bought too fast, moved too early—all because we didn’t wait on the Lord. But patience is more than waiting—it’s waiting with trust. The Bible says in Isaiah 40:31, “They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength…”

Modern-Day Illustration:

A man gets a deal on a used car. The seller says, “But you’ve got to buy it today.” It sounds too good to be true, and it is. He brings a mechanic friend the next morning—turns out the car had a hidden engine problem. If he had committed yesterday, he’d be paying for a broken car today.

Preaching Exhortation Quotes:

“If it can’t wait for God, it’s not worth your future!”

“Don’t let impatience put you in a permanent situation with temporary people.”

“The devil works in the rush—God works in the stillness!”

3. Purpose Guided by the Lord

Israel’s purpose was clear—to conquer the Promised Land and remove idolatry from Canaan. But in Joshua 9:15, Joshua makes peace with the very people they were meant to overcome. Why? Because their immediate feelings overrode their eternal focus. They knew their mission, but in the moment, they forgot their assignment.

Let’s be honest—most of our missteps don’t come from confusion; they come from compromise. We get sidetracked by convenience, comfort, or charm. But purpose must act like a filter: if it doesn’t align with what God called you to do, it’s not from Him.

You don’t have to pray about what God already said “no” to. Joshua already knew they were to drive out the inhabitants—but because they weren’t centered in purpose, they made a peace that became a lifelong burden.

Modern-Day Illustration:

A young entrepreneur is offered a chance to partner with a well-connected investor. The deal promises fast growth but includes selling a product that conflicts with her Christian values. The numbers are tempting—but the Spirit reminds her: “Your platform is about faith and integrity.” She declines. Years later, God elevates her through honest channels—and her brand stands tall because she stayed true to purpose.

Preaching Exhortation Quotes:

“Purpose isn’t about what pays—it’s about what pleases God!”

“If it doesn’t fit your assignment, it’s a distraction—not a blessing.”

“The enemy doesn’t have to pull you backward—he just has to push you off track.”

III. Devotion to God Includes Keeping Our Word

(Joshua 9:16–21)

Text Focus: “And the children of Israel smote them not, because the princes of the congregation had sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel. And all the congregation murmured against the princes.” (Joshua 9:18, KJV)

A. Costly Covenant (Joshua 9:16-18)

Joshua 9:16–18 KJV 1900

16 And it came to pass at the end of three days after they had made a league with them, that they heard that they were their neighbours, and that they dwelt among them. 17 And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjath-jearim. 18 And the children of Israel smote them not, because the princes of the congregation had sworn unto them by the Lord God of Israel. And all the congregation murmured against the princes.

Israel discovered the truth three days later—the Gibeonites were not distant travelers, but near neighbors and part of the condemned Canaanite population. The people were angry. Murmuring spread like wildfire throughout the congregation. From a human standpoint, they had every right to retaliate and nullify the agreement. But the leaders stood firm. They had sworn an oath—not just in their name—but in the name of the LORD God of Israel (v. 19).

They understood a divine principle: to break the oath would dishonor God, not just hurt the Gibeonites.

Biblical Theology:

To God, an oath carries spiritual weight because it reflects His character as a covenant-keeping God (Deuteronomy 7:9). When we make promises under His name, they are sacred, not situational.

The integrity of God’s people should mirror the integrity of God Himself. God never breaks His promises (Numbers 23:19).

Even when made under false pretenses, a covenant is binding if God’s name is invoked, because it represents His holiness, not just human agreement.

B. Covenant Compromise (Joshua 9:19-21)

Joshua 9:19–21 KJV 1900

19 But all the princes said unto all the congregation, We have sworn unto them by the Lord God of Israel: now therefore we may not touch them. 20 This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the oath which we sware unto them. 21 And the princes said unto them, Let them live; but let them be hewers of wood and drawers of water unto all the congregation; as the princes had promised them.

This was a moment of leadership integrity. The congregation grumbled, but the princes remained steadfast. Their courage wasn’t in taking up swords—it was in honoring their word. They restrained themselves from doing what was popular in order to do what was right before the Lord.

Let this be a reminder: Leadership will be tested not in victory, but in integrity. The leaders of Israel teach us that godly courage doesn’t just confront enemies—it keeps promises.

Pastoral Exhortation:

We live in a time where people treat commitments like contracts to be broken. Marriage vows, ministry callings, business deals—all fall victim to convenience. But we are not like the world. We are people of the covenant. And we must remember, a promise made in God’s name is a testimony about God’s character.

When you keep your word, even when it costs you, you preach a sermon louder than words. You show that God is trustworthy. You display that the Holy Spirit is at work in your life. That is courageous faith!

Illustration:

A pastor once shared how his church agreed to a three-year lease with a local landlord for a building. One year in, another property became available—bigger, better, cheaper. Everyone urged him to break the lease and move. But he refused. “We gave our word,” he said. “And our God keeps His.” That decision not only won the landlord’s respect—it led him to visit the church and later receive Christ.

When we keep our promises, even at a loss, we reveal God’s glory.

Practical Application:

Character over Convenience: Keeping your word when it's hard proves the sincerity of your faith.

Consistency over Compromise: Even if people complain, stick with what honors God.

Covenant over Culture: In a world of broken promises, be a light that stands for integrity.

Three Preaching Lines to Stir the People:

“Anybody can shout in the sanctuary—but can you stand by your word in the shadows?”

“God didn’t break His promise to you—don’t break your promise to Him or to others!”

“Keeping your word might cost you friends, but it will gain you favor with God!”

Cross-References (KJV):

Ecclesiastes 5:4–5 — “4 When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. 5 Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay.”  

Psalm 15:4 — “4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; But he honoureth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.”  

Numbers 30:2 — “2 If a man vow a vow unto the Lord, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.”  

Matthew 5:37 — “37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.”