How should God’s promises impact my life?

Romans 4:18-21Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping—believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!” And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead—and so was Sarah’s womb. Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises.

Hebrews 6:18So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us.

Hebrews 11:11It was by faith that even Sarah was able to have a child, though she was barren and was too old. She believed that God would keep his promise.

The trustworthiness of God gives us great comfort in the present and assurance for the future. When we are absolutely convinced that God is able to do anything he promises, then the troubles of this world are put in perspective.

Zechariah 6:15People will come from distant lands to rebuild the Temple of the Lord. And when this happens, you will know that my messages have been from the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. All this will happen if you carefully obey what the Lord your God says.

Acts 1:11“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!”

2 Corinthians 7:1Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.

2 Peter 1:4Because of his [God’s] glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.

God’s promises should prompt us to obedience, for we all want an eternal relationship with someone who will never fail us. The promise of Jesus’ imminent return also motivates us to live lives of obedience to God’s instructions.

Luke 1:12-13Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John.”

Anything God has promised is a sure thing; it is no longer uncertain. In Zechariah and Elizabeth’s case, the obstacles to fulfillment certainly seemed daunting, but God specializes in doing the impossible.

Hebrews 6:18So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie.

When we vow or promise something, we call upon a higher power to hold us accountable. God keeps his vows and promises because he is God and can only act according to his character. We who are Christians find courage in God’s integrity. Our integrity is rooted in his. This reality is an anchor for our souls.

Hebrews 10:23Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.

God’s promises sustain our hope because we can be sure his promises will be fulfilled.

Hebrews 11:13All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth.

Great people of God died without seeing all God’s promises to them fulfilled, but they remained confident in God’s faithfulness. Faith in God’s promises does not require that we see all his promises fulfilled in our lifetime. God’s promises are sometimes fulfilled in heaven not earth, but each one of his promises will be fulfilled in his perfect timing.

Acts 1:4-5Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

Hebrews 6:13-15For example, there was God’s promise to Abraham. Since there was no one greater to swear by, God took an oath in his own name, saying: “I will certainly bless you, and I will multiply your descendants beyond number.” Then Abraham waited patiently, and he received what God had promised.

God’s promises help us patiently wait on the Lord. God’s promises bring us the most blessing when they happen according to his timetable.