Standing on the Promises of God

There is a great hymn in the church entitled “Standing on the Promises of God”. Let me ask, how well do you stand on the promises and commitments you make to God?

In Nehemiah 9-10, the nation renews their covenant to God. It was a binding agreement. Let me walk you through those promises.

First to keep the laws of God. As we come to the New Testament to follow and obey God. To be in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

To the Church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be His Holy People, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:2).

Second, marry Believers. The great sin in Israel at the time was the men were marrying outside of Israel. In Nehemiah 10:30 they promised not to give their daughters to outsiders or let their sons marry their daughters.

Christians are strongly urged not to marry unbelievers. Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness. (2 Corinthians 6:14).

Third, Honor the Lords Day. Israel promised not to do any business on the Sabbath. It was a day of rest.

After the resurrection, believers began to meet the first day of the week worshiping Christ.

And upon the first day of the week when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached to them, (Acts 20:7).

Question, How do you keep the Lord’s Day?

Fourth, Giving. Looking at Nehemiah 10:34-35. The people committed to supply the temple wood for the sacrifices. They also brought first fruits of grain, fruit, and cattle. They promised to give.

We the church practice particularly tithing. “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Jill Briscoe said “Beyond giving of our material possessions, God calls upon us to give ourselves away, our time energy and passion.”

Fifth, while the Israelites were bringing things to the house, they bright their firstborn sons.

As believers let us bring our children to the house of the Lord. Teach them faith especially by example.

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you lie down and when you get up. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).”

Lastly, as the people renewed their covenant they said they would not neglect the house of the Lord. (Nehemiah 10:39).

This is a challenge relevant to both then and now. May our covenant’s be binding and kept.

A dear friend of mine went to be with Christ earlier this year said these words to me, may they challenge you “Set your eyes on Jesus and keep them there. Don’t let distractions get in the way, keep your eyes on Him.”