Keeping Our Word: Living with Kairos Intentionality

Ryan Watts -

There’s power in keeping our word. When we honor the commitments we make, we reflect integrity, build trust, and demonstrate the character of Christ. Living with a sense of Kairos—the divine urgency to act purposefully—is key to fulfilling promises promptly and intentionally. By doing what we say we’ll do, we glorify God and reveal a life of focus and accountability. This is our calling, one that challenges us to align with God’s timeless truth today.

Throughout Scripture, we are reminded of the importance of keeping our word. God Himself is the ultimate example of faithfulness. Every promise He has made has been fulfilled in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20), showing us that His Word is trustworthy and unshakable. As believers imitating Christ, it’s essential to reflect this same character when we make commitments, whether they seem small or significant.

Why Honoring Our Word Matters
When we keep our promises, we live out the integrity we’ve been called to in Proverbs 12:22:

"The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth."

Our words and actions should align. Making a commitment and following through builds trust with others while demonstrating respect for their time, needs, and expectations. Broken promises, on the other hand, can lead to disappointment and fractured relationships.

But it’s not just about people—it’s about honoring God. When we fail to do what we’ve said we’d do, we risk damaging our witness and our character. Our “yes” should mean yes, and our “no,” no, as Jesus taught in Matthew 5:37 (NLT):

"Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one."

Acting in Kairos: Living with Timely Intentionality
In the Kairos mindset, we don’t put things off. Instead, we recognize that every promise we make and every task we commit to is an opportunity to serve others and glorify God. To act with Kairos means to move with purpose and urgency as if each moment is divinely appointed.

This doesn’t mean we should overcommit ourselves in haste. Rather, it’s about considering the weight of our promises and being intentional about keeping them. For example, if you’ve promised to spend more time with your family, it might mean scheduling that time right now—not tomorrow, not “soon.” Fulfillment comes through action, not delay.

"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them." —Proverbs 3:27 (NLT)

Sometimes, procrastination or distractions can get in the way. When they do, we must realign ourselves with God’s will and focus. Ask: Am I honoring God with my commitments? Am I using my time wisely to fulfill the promises I’ve made?

Practical Ways to Keep Our Promises Promptly

  1. Be Thoughtful in Commitments: Before saying “yes,” prayerfully consider the time, resources, and energy you have to follow through. A well-thought-out commitment demonstrates wisdom.
  2. Write it Down: Whether it’s scheduling family time, completing a work task, or committing to serving someone in need, write it in your calendar or set reminders. Be intentional about tracking what you’ve said you’ll do.
  3. Eliminate Procrastination: Tackle tasks early by breaking them into smaller steps. Procrastination can diminish your ability to act with Kairos urgency.
  4. Be Spirit-Led: Let the Holy Spirit guide when and how you fulfill your commitments, ensuring each one aligns with the heart of God.
  5. Be Honest About Limitations: If circumstances prevent you from fulfilling a promise, communicate promptly and ask for understanding. This transparency builds trust even when challenges arise.

Reflecting Christ in Our Words and Actions
Jesus’ life is a prime example of faithfully keeping commitments in Kairos timing. Every word He spoke and every act He carried out fulfilled God’s promises intentionally and promptly—never late, never rushed. When we model our lives after His, living with focus, purpose, and urgency, we become reliable stewards of the time God has entrusted to us.

Let us remember that keeping our word not only strengthens our relationships with others but also deepens our relationship with God. In doing so, we honor Him with lives marked by integrity and faithfulness.

Prayer to Live with Integrity and Kairos Purpose

Heavenly Father,
I come before You, recognizing the gravity of my words and the commitments I make. You are faithful in all Your promises, and I long to reflect that faithfulness in my own life. Help me to speak with integrity and to do what I say I will do. Remove distractions and procrastination from my heart so that I may act urgently and intentionally in fulfilling my word.

Lord, guide me by the Holy Spirit to make wise commitments and to honor them in ways that glorify You. Teach me to live with Kairos purpose, seizing every opportunity to serve, love, and build trust with those around me. May my “yes” be a true yes, and my “no” a true no, grounded in Your truth.

I dedicate my time, my actions, and my promises to You, Lord. Let them be a reflection of Your love and Your faithfulness in my life. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.