In Romans 1:31, among a list of sins the Gentile world committed against God, we find the word in KJV “covenantbreakers.” A covenant is an agreement between two parties that is regarded as a solemn vow. An underlying principle of a covenant is the Golden Rule. Jesus said in Matthew 7:12, “ Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” If I want someone to be truthful and keep up their end of the covenant with me, then I should be committed to doing the same to them.
Many today do not keep their word in the business and social realms. An agreed upon contract should be upheld by both parties. There may be some unforeseen circumstances that come up in these realms where changes must occur. Understanding and fairness should be applied while these adjustments are being made.
For years there has been an epidemic in regard to breaking marriage vows. Far too many do not regard the marriage vow as seriously as they should. Because many have long viewed marriage as a trial run, it is not uncommon for couples today to abandon the concept of marriage altogether because, for them, it has no real solemnity and commitment. Marriage is still an institution designed and ordained by God (Genesis 2:22-25; Matthew 19:1-12). He takes it just as seriously as He always has. The Lord hates the breaking of marriage covenants now just as much as He did in Malachi 2:10-17. It is not marriage that needs to change, but the people who regard marriage as frivolous who need to change
In Psalm 15:1, David asked “LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” The answer is given in the following verses, detailing what caliber of people God will allow in His presence. One of the characteristics, found in Psalm 15:4, is “He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.” God’s approval is on the man who when he makes a covenant will keep it even if it costs him dearly. When one makes a covenant, particularly a marriage vow, the vow is for the rest of one’s life regardless of health problems, financial difficulties, etc.; we need more people who will swear to their own hurt.
What if someone breaks their covenant with me and refuses to make it right? If I have tried to convince them to keep their agreement to no avail, then I should follow the exhortation of Romans 12:21: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Just because people do not keep their end of an agreement, does not mean I have the right to become bitter and vengeful. We must return good for evil, even though it is a difficult practice.
When one is baptized into Christ, one is making a covenant to die to self and serve the Lord for the rest of his days (Romans 6:3-13; 7:4). Are you keeping your commitment?
-Mark Day
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