"But You Promised"

"I Promise" words rarely uttered today.

I don't see enough written or taught regarding promises. I have found in general most people are very reluctant to say: "I promise". It is usually I will try, or I will do my best to, or if I can, but rarely the very simple "I promise".

I began meditating as to why this might be. . .

It was amazing the strength of someones word in ancient times. If, for example you were captured in battle, and mercy was granted, you could take an oath that you would lay down your weapon and this would be sufficient.

It would not matter how wicked your deeds were at the time you entered into an oath or covenant your word was your bond.

I believe we don't say "I Promise" regularly is due to fear and insecurity. It could come from past failures to keep your word. It could be a lack of commitment.

I am researching into the power of the PROMISE today. I know for me PROMISES are powerful. They go beyond just saying I am going to do something. I believe if I promise something I will deliver or die trying. Although this seems dramatic it is a page out of ancient history where if an oath was taken and not upheld death was at times a consequence.

I think the parents can relate to kids that use the strength of promises as leverage. If you are like me, my kids have said almost as early as they began talking "but you promised" even if this was not the case. I believe that this is such a powerful concept it can truly bring an adult to their knees before a three year old.

There is something so potent about the promise, it feels inside like my reputation, my integrity, and my relationships can hinge on a verbal contract that is a promise. I believe this to be a great thing, a way to break out of complacent comfort zones. I believe in making more promises in life.

I can remember while on active duty I picked up the habit of nicotine. It did not serve me well, I could feel its' damaging effects on me in all 8 areas of my life. When I got out of the service I tried many different solutions to this powerful addiction. When I was finally able to quit with the assistance of a program, one of the key elements of this program was a contract. This contract wasn't any contract it was a promise I made with God that I would not smoke again. At the time I was working with Disabled Veterans at a facility, The area that tobacco was used was right outside my office door. I placed that contract right on the back of my door in plain sight so that I could see it every time I walked out into the cloud smoke. There were certain days that I know it was only by virtue of this promise I didn't smoke. I haven't returned to smoking since making that contract. It has been over 5 years now and I have seen so many rich blessings as a result of this commitment and promise.

I am at a time in my life when I desire to stretch my abilities to grow my capacity in areas such as love, service, productivity, and the value I bring. I believe this takes commitment to the process and I know better way then to enter into agreements and follow through.

Today I am challenging myself to look for opportunities to make promises.

Joshua Andrus
http://www.hiresite.info/