My Word
I watched my Pappy work out deals with his spoken word and a firm handshake. Today, we really must write everything down before a deal is binding on both parties. In our culture today, our word is not enough to make something binding and enforceable. I work in the Real Estate space and it’s very important to put all the terms of the agreement in writing within a binding and enforceable contract. I’ve watched buyers and sellers really “hit it off” and get along well and make some agreements, but if I’m aware of any verbal agreements, I going to put them in writing as soon as I can. Even if someone puts a promise in writing, it doesn’t mean that they will actually keep their promise. There are hundreds of thousands of attorneys whose main gig is defending or navigating a breach of contract.
The people of Israel are near the land promised by God. The tribes of Reuben and Gad approached Moses and asked about staying here on this side of the Jordan and putting down roots. Moses becomes frustrated at first and then they explain that their fighting men will go with the rest of the nation and fight for the land promised to them by the Lord. This promise to help take the land is a game-changer and Moses calms down. Check this out….
20 Then Moses said, “If you keep your word and arm yourselves for the Lord’s battles, 21 and if your troops cross the Jordan and keep fighting until the Lord has driven out his enemies, 22 then, you may return when the Lord has conquered the land. You will have fulfilled your duty to the Lord and to the rest of the people of Israel. And the land on the east side of the Jordan will be your property from the Lord. 23 But if you fail to keep your word, then you will have sinned against the Lord, and you may be sure that your sin will find you out. 24 Go ahead and build towns for your families and pens for your flocks but do everything you have promised.” (Numbers 32:20-24 NLT)
I didn’t know that my Mom was quoting scripture when she used to tell me that “my sin will find me out”. This simple phrase was given to me when I was reminded to make good choices. The Word of God points me to choose right, but the world I live in steals my attention and seeks to get me to change my mind. The world wants me to compromise my values and become more “successful”. The Lord on the other hand, wants me to live out His values that I seek to live by. The Lord wants me to honor Him, no matter what the circumstances. He is honored when I keep my word to Him.
I heard a quote not long ago that says: “When my values are clear, my decisions are easy”. I want to keep my faith and trust in the Lord. As I walk out my faith, I believe my life is more abundant and fuller. I want my word to reflect what I believe and know about His Word.
Pressing On!
Dwayne