Keeping promises - Tausia folafolaga

Scripture Focus: 2 Samuelu 9

David said, “Is there yet any who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”
- 2 Samuel 9 (WEB)

Study:

This chapter of 2 Samuel beautifully illustrates the power of keeping promises, even long after the person to whom the promise was made is gone. David, now king, remembers his covenant with Jonathan, Saul’s son. Despite Saul’s relentless pursuit of David’s life, David held Jonathan as a dear friend and was bound by loyalty to their shared agreement. He proactively seeks out any surviving members of Saul’s household – specifically, Mephibosheth, Jonathan's disabled son – not to harm them, but to demonstrate unwavering kindness. This wasn’t merely a political gesture; it was a heartfelt fulfillment of a solemn commitment. David didn’t just offer Mephibosheth a token gesture, but restored to him all the land that had belonged to Saul, providing for his needs and dignity for the rest of his life. The story highlights the importance of remembering past relationships and the commitments made within them, even when circumstances change or the other person is no longer present.

Application:

In our lives, we often make promises – to friends, family, colleagues, and even to God. We can easily forget these promises amidst the busyness of daily life. David’s example challenges us to actively remember our commitments. Are there promises we’ve made that we’ve neglected? Perhaps a friend we’ve lost touch with, a commitment to serve in our community, or a spiritual discipline we've let slide? David's actions demonstrate that fulfilling promises, particularly those made in challenging times, reveals true character and honors the relationships we hold dear. It is a beautiful example of grace and love in action, stemming from the depths of true friendship.

Reflection Questions:

• What promises have I made to others?
• Are there any promises I have neglected to keep?
• How can I actively remember and fulfill promises in my life?
• What does it mean to show kindness based on a promise made to someone else?
• How does this story inform my understanding of God’s promises to me?

Prayer:

Loving God, thank you for the example of David’s loyalty and commitment. Help us to remember the promises we have made, and give us the strength and grace to fulfill them. Remind us that keeping our word is a reflection of Your character. Guide us to be people of integrity and faithfulness, always striving to honor our commitments, and to extend kindness and grace to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: 2 Samuel, David, Jonathan, Promises, Kindness, Loyalty, Covenant, Commitment, Faithfulness, Grace, Relationships, Remembering, Scripture, Bible Study