Promises, Promises

Promise. That word brings joy to some and heartache to others, depending on if it is kept. As children we hear adults say "I promise." many times. Sometimes it's said to stop a whining child from asking for something, again. Other times it's said to reassure a troubled mind. As we grow older sometimes we even "pinkie promise" or "cross my heart". As adults we make promises through legal documents or oaths. For the most part those saying the words truly intend to keep the promise made.

Probably the biggest promise we make is during our wedding vows. We promise to love, honor, and cherish our spouse, until death us do part. Unfortunately, not everyone keeps this promise either. We tend to ask people, "Do you promise?" if we are unsure they will follow through. Promises are powerful.

Throughout our marriage I had many times when I felt so much emotion and love that I thought my heart was going to bust out of my chest. Many of those episodes were following a great time with Maddy. Maybe we went on a walk and had a wonderful talk. Maybe we spent a fabulous weekend or vacation together. It always happened after quality time together. Usually when I was feeling so in love I told Maddy to promise me he would never leave me. I told him I never wanted to live without him. After the accident I thought about these times. I thought how that was the only promise he didn't keep. The more I remembered those times, the more I realized I was wrong. He never broke that promise, because he never promised me. He never used that word. He would say things like "I'll do my best." or "I plan on it". He knew he wasn't in charge of his life. We planned to spend forever together, retiring and growing old together. We also knew that tomorrow was never guaranteed. Maddy was greatly aware that God's plan may not be the same as ours. I, on the other hand, have always chosen to try to persuade God to give me some input on my future. It is now well documented that God was not on board with my plan.

Many people have let others down by breaking their promises. Hearts have been hurt and relationships damaged by not living up to an agreement made. Man will let us down at one time or another, but there is One who always keeps His promises. Currently the one I'm clinging to is Deuteronomy 31:6 - "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." My life verse has been Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you', declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Finally, the verse God gave me the night Maddy died reminds me of the ultimate promise God made for those who believe in Him. He has told us what he has planned for us in eternity. John 14:1-3 - "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."

Trust in the promises of God. If you have not put your faith in Him, consider doing that today.