March 2022
Terms and Conditions
B. Keith Chapman, President & CEO
Do you remember the days when large business deals and commitments were made by just a spoken word and handshake? While I have heard amazing stories of trust and commitment involving just the spoken word, these kinds of transactions are rare today. It seems like the application of organizational core values and overall trust in people is fading. We are so accustomed to signed agreements that include a lengthy list of terms, conditions, exemptions, and waivers all for the purpose of limiting risk and forcing performance. Ever wonder how our current environment of robust contracts and legal actions has changed our personal approach to decision making and trust?
An unknown author once said, “People with good intentions make promises, People with good character keep them.” Have you ever broken a promise? Has someone ever broken a promise to you? Most people have likely been on both sides of this fence. There are several reasons or excuses for breaking a promise, but does one broken promise mean you have poor character for the rest of your life? I would suggest that your character must be a “point in time” test. Everyone can make a mistake from time to time, but that does not mean character cannot improve or decline from one day to the next. However, frequent broken promises can lead to a serious compromise and lasting deterioration of trust and character.
Wouldn’t it be nice to know someone that has made thousands of promises and has never broken or failed to perform on any of them? 2 Corinthians 1:20 says, “For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our Amen (which means Yes) ascends to God for his glory.” The Bible is filled with thousands of promises that God has made for our benefit. He has never failed or defaulted on any performance obligation. I am reminded of the power and authority of God’s word when I read Isaiah 55:11, “So my (God’s) word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but it will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” God’s word, and promises therein, is a foundation that is unshakeable by the flaws and shortcomings in this world. As such, our faith and relationship with God should be one rooted in trust and commitment.
How often have you heard someone say, “God if you do _____, then I will do ______.” Sounds a lot like the terms and conditions of a contract, doesn’t it? Is it possible that we are so accustomed to the practice of negotiating that we even try to impose our own terms and conditions on our relationship with God? There is no risk to mitigate and no chance of default on God’s ability to uphold His promises. I am thankful that He did not put any terms or conditions on His commitment to love each of us enough to bear the cross. God is good and He is faithful. His promises endure forever, and they are designed for our benefit. Don’t miss out on the promises and blessings that God has for your life by applying restrictive terms and conditions on your relationship with Him.
Challenge: Always remember that God has done His part, we have to do ours. Be careful not to apply unnecessary terms and conditions to your relationship with God. Instead, embrace the promises that He made for your benefit. Follow His example of commitment and trust in your actions and promises to others.
Published: March 1, 2022
