December 20th, 2025

Scripture – “Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Observation – This psalm describes the characteristics of someone who loves God. Verse 15:4b states that the person with a close relationship with God keeps their oaths even when it hurts.

Application – How are you doing in this area? This is important to God. I’m 57 years old and have been in the business world for over 40 years. When I was young I would frequently hear men say things like, “a man is only as good as his word”, “a handshake is good enough for me” or “if you say you’ll do it I trust you”. This was very common and generally true. God tells us to be very careful about making promises because when you make them he expects us to follow through, even when it hurts. 

Prayer – Lord Jesus, give us hearts that truly care about fulfilling our promises to you and to others. Amen.