Have you ever told someone that you were going to do something and didn’t do it? For instance, call them, go somewhere with them, buy them something, etc. Did you ever follow through on it or did you keep them waiting in suspense? Well, if you haven’t done what you said you would do, then I know this might be a hard pill to swallow, but that would be considered, “Not keeping your word.” And “yes,” it would be a lie. Ouch! I know that pricks the heart! But it’s true.

Proverbs 12:22 says, “The Lord hates those who don’t keep their word, but he delights in those who do.” (NLT) In another version (NIV) it says, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.”  

This passage of Scripture really got me one day and I was like, “Whoa! That’s in the Bible?” I remember a time when I got so busy, complacent, and tired that I began to let stuff go. I actually over-promised things that I would do in a very fatigued time in my life, and I simply could not realistically fulfill them. BUT… the Holy Spirit gently reminded me of this Scripture and quickened me to follow-through on what I said I would do at all costs.  And with that being said, I obeyed and began to follow-up. But I also learned a lesson.

Quick suggestion…if you cannot do it, say you cannot do it, because once you commit - your word means everything to them. Think before you say, “Yes!” And if you don’t have to give a direct answer to a question, ask them “Can I get back with you on it?” And do it in a timely manner. Also, don’t make commitments on impulse, high emotions, or fatigue. Rest first, so you can have a clear mind. And last, but certainly not least, pray. Remember, God knows what your schedule is going to look like before you do.  So consider Him in all things, plan accordingly, and go for it. 

You see, God wants us to be women of integrity, good character, and women whom He can use and trust for His purpose. But when we neglect to keep our word due to busyness, laziness, or mere lack of concern for the other party, then we are not only displeasing God and disappointing others; but we are creating a character flaw within ourselves. Colossians 3:9 says, “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.”

So, if you have done this in any way, guess what? There is hope! Once you recognize that you have not kept your word on something, obey the Scriptures, ask God’s forgiveness, repent (turn away from the sin), and make a conscious effort to follow-through on what you said you would do. Then you can experience God’s peace. As Christians, we have to consciously be considerate of others. Philippians 4:5 says, “…Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember the Lord is coming soon.” NLT   

Stay honest and God will be pleased… and so will others around you.

~Courtnaye

Thanks for reading and I'd love your feedback! I pray that God will continue to enlighten you to live for Him through His word in your daily life. Stay tuned for new blog posts every Monday at 7:30am on Inside Out with Courtnaye. You can see blogs on my website by visiting www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org or receive it by “Liking” my Facebook Page by clicking here http://www.facebook.com/pages/Inside-Out-with-Courtnaye/202095829824129#!/pages/Inside-Out-with-Courtnaye/202095829824129. Also, follow me on Twitter by inoutwcourtnaye. Thanks again! [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]