In its simplest form, a covenant is a binding agreement, contract, or bond between parties. In essence, it is a commitment that carries the weight of a promise. When a covenant is activated, there is an implicit understanding that the agreed-upon terms will be upheld. In our legal framework, individuals often enter into covenants with the confidence that the legal system will enforcement the stipulated conditions. However, despite legal assurances, a certain level of trust is crucial between the involved parties. It’s rare for individuals to enter into covenants with those known to be untrustworthy. Typically, legal covenants serve as precautionary measures established by rational individuals to safeguard against unforeseen events. Trust in the integrity of the opposing party is assumed when entering into these agreements. This leads us to the central theme of this blog: God’s covenant.
God’s Covenant with Abraham
In Numbers 23:19, it is stated that God is not subject to human fallibility. He does not lie or change His mind. The passage indirectly alludes to the Abrahamic Covenant, where God promised Abraham that he would bless the Israelites and Abraham’s family line. When Balak sought to have Balaam curse the Israelites, Balaam asserted, “‘I have received a command to bless; he has blessed, and I cannot change it’” (Numbers 23:20, NIV).
God, bound by covenant, does not alter His promises. Numbers 23:19 not only reveals the nature of God but serves as a covenant in itself—declaring that His word is unbreakable. Once spoken, it is irrevocable. The following is an exercise to contemplate:
Covenant Agreement Between God and Me
This Agreement made this ____________ day of ______20 by and between ____________ and God.
Standing on the promises of the Abrahamic Covenant, I am believing God for:
The Bible verses that I rest my beliefs on are:
This agreement encourages us to remind God of His promises. While doing so, it’s vital to acknowledge that God’s thoughts and ways surpass our understanding (Isaiah 55:8). Unanswered prayers may occur for reasons beyond our comprehension, but in our agreement with God, we trust that He hears and answers, even if the outcome differs from our expectations, as it aligns with His divine deliberation. The examples below illustrate how God responded to His people’s prayers.
God’s Covenant with His People
Prayer for healing: Hezekiah pleaded for his life, and God granted him an additional fifteen years (Isaiah 38:5, NIV).
Praying for a Godly partner: Abraham’s servant prayed for a specific wife for Isaac, leading to the union of Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 24:1–67).
Praying to have children: God answered Isaac’s plea for children, and Rebekah became pregnant with twins (Genesis 25:21, NLT).
Released from jail: An angel of the Lord freed prisoners during the night (Acts 5:19).
Financial breakthrough: “The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it” (Proverbs 10:22, NLT).
Spiritual breakthrough: Divine power demolishes strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4, NIV).
Fulfillment of God’s promise: Despite Joseph’s trials, God fulfilled the promise made through Pharaoh recognizing God’s spirit in him (Genesis 41:38–40, ESV).
Today, may you recall the covenant agreement God has made with you and with Abraham. Stand firm on His word as you pray for His favor!