What does the Bible say about keeping promises?

Quick answer

Scripture treats promises seriously. God keeps every promise he makes. Believers are called to be people of their word — saying what we mean, doing what we say, even when it costs us.

"Let your yes be yes and your no be no" (Matthew 5:37; James 5:12).

Psalm 15:4 commends the one who "swears to his own hurt and does not change." Keeping a costly promise reveals character.

God’s faithfulness to his promises (Romans 4:21) is the foundation of all our hope. Living faithful to our word reflects him.

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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.