Defend my cause and redeem me; preserve my life according to your promise. (Ps. 119:154)
What makes a promise? Is it one’s word? A handshake? A signed document? The fact of the matter is that, although one’s word, a handshake, and a signed document are all symbols and gestures that one will fulfill the obligations and terms of a proposal, a promise is only realized when action is taken.
God promises to be in relationship with humanity, for humanity was created to be in a relationship with God. It is God’s love and compassion that leads to God’s pursuit of humanity, even after the fall. However, the promise of God comes with an obligation, for relationships require both parties to participate. Humanity is called to “walk before me [God] faithfully and be blameless” (Gen. 17:1). A faithful and blameless life is a life that reflects the biblical principles and character of God that are found throughout God’s law (see Ps. 119:153), statutes (v. 157), and precepts (v. 159).
God acted on his promise. This is on full display throughout the Bible, as God pursued a relationship with humanity. It is equally clear that humanity has a choice as to whether to participate in the relationship for which God longs. Choosing a relationship with God means choosing his compassion, love, and redemption. It also means choosing to live a life that reflects his ways and holiness.
Commit to living a life that reflects God’s character.
Brian T. Bernius is an ordained minister and professor of Old Testament and Near Eastern Studies at Indiana Wesleyan University.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
