A promise is a spoken word that something will happen. Promises are easily spoken, but difficult to fulfill. We live in a time when words are cheap, people are "busy," and following through is no longer the standard.

Instead, promises are constantly broken, and our integrity is chipped away by our "good intentions" that were never really that good.

Make A Difference, Keep A Promise

It seems obvious that keeping a promise is beneficial to the other person, but I believe that keeping a promise is equally, and perhaps even more, beneficial to the promise keeper.

Promises Are Built With Integrity

The word integrity refers to someone who has high moral standards. When we keep our promises, we have been honest and truthful. When we keep our promises, we begin our journey of striving for moral excellence.

A promise is not simply the words that are spoken, but also the actions that accompany our words. May the words of our mouths express the intentions of our heart through practical and kind actions. May we be people who have high standards. May our words be highly valued by others because we highly value our own integrity.

I am not speaking of self-appointed righteousness, but rather a lifestyle that other people see in us that is full of integrity and love.

Promises Are Executed in Love

I tend to think of promises in an encouraging light. I guess that the threat of violence is a promise to some degree, but even the vilest of humanity make good promises to those they love most. I think of promises as good gifts that I shower on other people to prove that I love them, cherish them, value them, and/or respect them. For me, my words (whether spoken to my closest loved ones or the stranger I just met) can be proof that I care.

Simply put, a promise is an act of love. Love is sacrificial, meaning that there is a cost for the giver. A promise may require sacrifice as well - time, resources, knowledge, etc.

A kept promise is proof of love. A broken promise, even a small one, can leave people broken-hearted and alone. May I be a man who not only speaks love but equally shows love with my actions.

Promises Can Change the Future

I have always wanted to be a change agent. I want to be someone who can use my knowledge and influence to change the lives of the people around me. And although I strive to execute grand plans, I must never forget that being a man of my word makes a difference in the lives of the people around me.

Never forget that keeping a promise can change someone's day, month, year, and life. Your integrity and expressions of love are meaningful to the people who need encouragement and support.

Big changes start with small actions. Revolutions and reformations start with first steps. Be the change agent that you deeply desire to be by being men and women who fulfill promises.

Final Thoughts

Keeping a promise is a simple, logical concept. But for some of us, it takes a lifetime for us to master the art of fulfilling promises. We cannot allow the excuses of busyness and tiredness to stop us from following through. We cannot allow the qualities of laziness and self-centeredness to prevent us from blessing others.

As I write, I am convicted of my own failures. I want to master the art of fulfilling promises, and I invite you to do the same.

1. Do you find it challenging to keep a promise?
2. What is the biggest reason why you break your promises?

I look forward to hearing your responses. Thanks for stopping by!

@SumatraNate

---

Image Source: https://pixabay.com/en/pinky-swear-friends-pinky-promise-329329/