As we come to know God, we realize how much He values established relationships. That is another way of saying: He is the God of covenants. The word “covenant” means contract, treaty or agreement. Covenant carries a strong sense of assurance based on clear understandings and firm promises. Covenant speaks to God’s faithfulness, and the faithfulness He expects of His people.
Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love Him and keep His commandments, to a thousand generations. (Deuteronomy 7:9)
Covenant is the main framework for God’s dealings with humans throughout history. Covenant reflects God’s dependable nature. For that reason, covenant’s first purpose it to express His “steadfast love and faithfulness” to those who keep His covenant.
All the paths of the LORD are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep His covenant and His testimonies…. The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear Him, and He makes known to them His covenant. (Psalm 25:10, 14)