The promises of God stand as an unwavering foundation for those united with Christ, providing profound joy and hope that transcend our present circumstances. As believers, we are called to take hold of these divine promises and allow them to shape our lives. This essay explores the depth and significance of God's promises, offering encouragement to embrace these promises fully. We'll illustrate this with an example focusing on God's promises of peace.

The Rich Inheritance in God's Promises

In a world where material wealth is often seen as the pinnacle of success, true riches lie in God's promises. Just as a person with substantial land and bonds is considered wealthy, a believer with God's promises is infinitely richer. This spiritual inheritance is guaranteed by God Himself, who cannot fail. Galatians 2:20 illustrates this beautifully, where Paul speaks of living by faith in the Son of God. This faith not only sustains us but enriches us spiritually, offering a wealth that far surpasses any earthly possession.

Self-Examination and Reliance on God's Promises

To truly embrace God's promises, we must first examine our reliance on them:

1. Are we driven out of self-reliance? Like those who flee to the city of refuge in Hebrews 6:18, have we acknowledged the insufficiency of worldly gains and sought refuge in Christ?
2. Is our primary focus on securing our spiritual inheritance? Similar to Mary, who chose the better part (Luke 10:42), do we prioritize our relationship with God and the pursuit of His promises above all else?
3. Do we safeguard our spiritual heritage? Just as Naboth refused to sell his inheritance (1 Kings 21:3), do we hold God's promises with such reverence that we would not trade them for any temporal pleasure or convenience?
4. Do we meditate on and cherish God's promises? The key to internalizing these promises is to keep them close to our hearts, regularly reflecting on them and allowing them to guide our thoughts and actions.

Living by Faith in God's Promises

Living by faith means drawing our daily strength and sustenance from God's assurances. The promises of God provide righteousness, peace, and spiritual strength, offering comfort in times of distress and guiding us through life's challenges. As Habakkuk 3:18 exemplifies, even when all else fails, we can rejoice in the Lord and find our sustenance in Him.

Example of Living by Faith: Embracing God's Promises of Peace

Consider a believer named Sarah who faces a season of immense stress and anxiety due to job uncertainty and personal health concerns. Sarah turns to the promises of peace found in Scripture:

1. Peace with God through Jesus Christ: Sarah reminds herself of Romans 5:1, "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This verse reassures her that her primary relationship with God is secure, providing a foundation for all other aspects of peace.

2. The Peace of God in Our Hearts: Sarah clings to Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." She makes it a habit to bring her worries to God in prayer, trusting that His peace will guard her heart.

3. Perfect Peace for Those Who Trust in God: Reflecting on Isaiah 26:3, "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you," Sarah consciously redirects her thoughts towards God's faithfulness and sovereignty, finding perfect peace in trusting Him.

By meditating on these promises in communion with God, Sarah finds her anxiety diminishing and her spirit uplifted. Even as challenges persist, she experiences an inner tranquility that sustains her.

Embracing God's Promises as Our Heritage

Regardless of our worldly status, every believer is invited to claim God's promises as their own. This heritage is incomparable, offering satisfaction and joy that worldly possessions cannot. It sanctifies our lives, aligns us with God's will, and confirms our adoption as His children.

When we hold fast to God's promises, we reflect the joy and assurance that come from knowing Him. This joy is a testament to our faith, glorifying God and serving as a beacon to others. By walking in the fear of God and the comfort of the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:31), we experience the fullness of joy that sustains us through all of life's trials.

Conclusion

In taking hold of God's promises, we find a heritage that transcends the temporal and connects us deeply with the eternal. Let us, therefore, cherish these promises, meditate on them, and live by faith, drawing from the infinite well of God's grace. As we do, we will experience the profound joy and unshakable hope that come from being heirs of God's everlasting covenant.

This essay encourages believers to embrace the promises of God fully, recognizing them as a rich and eternal inheritance. By living by faith and prioritizing our spiritual heritage, we align ourselves with God's will and experience the deep joy and satisfaction that come from knowing Him. Sarah's example demonstrates how we can practically apply these promises, finding peace even in life's storms.

- Chris Werner

-----

Related Reading
According to Promise by C. H. Sppurgeon
Precious Bible Promises by Samuel Clarke
A Treatise of the Divine Promises by Edward Leigh
The Saint's Pocket Book of Promises by Joseph Alleine
A Collection of the Promises of the Gospel by John Colquhoun