Keeping our Word

Read 2 Samuel 9.

Many people make promises.  People of godly character make commitments.

David's man to man covenant with his best friend Jonathan was life-long.  They made a commitment to care for each other's families in 1 Samuel 20:14.  It did not change with the death of Jonathan, or with the change in national leadership. 

Once the new kingdom was established and surrounding enemies put down, David turned his attention to some unfinished business.  "Is there still anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan's sake?"  Indeed, there was one crippled son of Jonathan whom a servant, Ziba, had kept safe.

A tyrant would have killed all the family of the previous king to protect himself; not David.  When Mephibosheth appeared he bowed in fear before the king.  But David quickly sought to alleviate any fear, restored the inheritance of his grandfather, and then publicly committed to treat him as one of his own family.  In addition, David charged Ziba and his very large family to care for Mephibosheth's estate.

Keeping our word is not only important to the receiver but the LORD takes note as well.

"Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether."  (Psalm 139:4)  And, Jesus said, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned.”