The Promises of God

The Promises of God

Introduction:
2 Peter 1:2–4 reminds us that through God’s promises we become partakers of the divine nature. The child of God can always turn to Scripture for peace, comfort, and assurance. The Bible is filled with promises that reveal the goodness and faithfulness of our God. Let’s examine a few of these precious promises together.

The Righteous Are Blessed

God’s blessings surround those who live in righteousness. Psalm 5:11–12 declares that the Lord blesses the righteous and surrounds him with favor like a shield. The righteous also find a refuge in the Lord (Proverbs 14:32). In times of trouble, they can run to the name of the Lord, which is a strong tower, and be safe (Proverbs 18:10). God’s promises are not temporary—they are sure, steadfast, and available to those who trust in Him.

God’s Dwelling Place

The psalmist longed to dwell in God’s presence. Psalm 27:4–5 expresses that desire: “One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.” God provides a secret place for the falsely accused (Psalm 31:17–20) and an eternal dwelling for His people (Psalm 90:1–2). His dwelling is lovely beyond description (Psalm 84:1–4), where even the sparrow finds a home. Those who dwell in His presence enjoy His protection, fellowship, and peace.

God Is Our Refuge

Nahum 1:7 reminds us that “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who trust in Him.” God is always near to help (Psalm 46:1), never distant or unaware. Deuteronomy 33:26–27 assures us that “There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides the heavens to help you.” His everlasting arms are underneath His people. We can take comfort in knowing that wherever we go, God is our place of safety.

God Is Our Shield

When Abram faced uncertainty, God said, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward” (Genesis 15:1). The Lord protects His people and fights for them. He is both shield and sword to those who trust Him (Deuteronomy 33:29). David thanked the Lord for being his strength and shield in Psalm 28:7–8. Psalm 84:11 adds, “The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” The promise of God’s protection calls for a life of faithfulness and upright living.

God Is Our Fortress

David declared, “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer” (2 Samuel 22:1–4). In every danger, God was his defense. Psalm 46:2–7 proclaims that even if the earth gives way, we will not fear because “God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved.” Psalm 61:1–2 reminds us to cry to the Lord when our hearts are overwhelmed, for He is our rock that is higher than we are. God’s people stand secure within His fortress, unshaken by the storms of life.

The Promises of God Sermon Outline:

• Introduction: 2 Peter 1:2–4 – God’s promises bring peace, comfort, and divine fellowship.

• I. The Righteous Are Blessed

  • Psalm 5:11–12 – Surrounded with favor.

  • Proverbs 14:32 – Refuge for the righteous.

  • Proverbs 18:10 – The Lord is a strong tower.

   

• II. God’s Dwelling Place

  • Psalm 27:4–5 – Desire to dwell in God’s house.

  • Psalm 31:17–20 – Secret place for the falsely accused.

  • Psalm 90:1–2 – God’s eternal dwelling.

  • Psalm 84:1–4 – The loveliness of His dwelling.

   

• III. God Is Our Refuge

  • Nahum 1:7 – The Lord is a stronghold.

  • Psalm 46:1 – God is our help in trouble.

  • Deuteronomy 33:26–27 – Everlasting arms of God.

   

• IV. God Is Our Shield

  • Genesis 15:1 – “I am your shield.”

  • Deuteronomy 33:29 – Shield and sword of victory.

  • Psalm 28:7–8 – Strength and protection.

  • Psalm 84:11 – Shield for the upright.

   

• V. God Is Our Fortress

  • 2 Samuel 22:1–4 – The Lord is our deliverer.

  • Psalm 46:2–7 – Unshaken in God’s presence.

  • Psalm 61:1–2 – The rock higher than we are.

   

• Conclusion: John 14:1–3 – Jesus promises a home prepared for the faithful.

Call to Action:
God’s promises are unchanging and everlasting. Every promise He makes, He keeps. Take comfort in knowing that His presence is your refuge, His power your shield, and His Word your assurance. Trust Him daily. Rest in His promises. Walk uprightly and confidently in His protection, knowing your future is secure in His hands.

Key Takeaways:

• God surrounds the righteous with favor and blessing (Psalm 5:12).

• God’s dwelling is a refuge for those who seek Him (Psalm 27:4–5).

• God is a present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

• God is our shield and defender (Genesis 15:1; Psalm 84:11).

• God is our fortress and eternal protector (2 Samuel 22:1–4).

• God’s promises are fulfilled in Christ (John 14:1–3).

Scripture Reference List:

• 2 Peter 1:2–4 – God’s promises give us divine nature.

• Psalm 5:11–12 – The righteous are blessed and surrounded with favor.

• Proverbs 14:32; 18:10 – Refuge and safety in the Lord.

• Psalm 27:4–5; 31:17–20; 90:1–2; 84:1–4 – The beauty of God’s dwelling place.

• Nahum 1:7; Psalm 46:1; Deuteronomy 33:26–27 – God is our refuge.

• Genesis 15:1; Deuteronomy 33:29; Psalm 28:7–8; Psalm 84:11 – God is our shield.

• 2 Samuel 22:1–4; Psalm 46:2–7; Psalm 61:1–2 – God is our fortress and stronghold.

• John 14:1–3 – Christ’s promise of an eternal home.

Prepared by Bobby Stafford of the church of Christ at Granby, MO