Thank God For The Faithful!

Are you faithful? That's a vague question I know. Faithful to whom? Faithful to what? Faithful when, etc? But it is a question we must ask ourselves quite often. We get a better understanding of the application of the word "faithful" when we look at what the dictionary says. Faithful: ( a.) Strict or thorough in the performance of a duty. (b.) True to one's word. (c.) Steady in allegiance or affection. (d.) Loyal, constant, reliable, trusted, or believed. Faithful.

Faithfulness is key to success in any realm. Faithfulness says, "Not only will I commit, but I will stay committed!" Faithfulness says, "God is faithful, so I can be faithful." Some folks believe faithfulness is conditional. Man, I'm glad God doesn't think that. He's been so faithful to me and I don't really deserve His faithfulness. If God's faithfulness were conditional, even walking by faith would be futile, because some days He just wouldn't be there. But the truth is...He is faithful (as the old Randy Stonehill song said), "Even when I'm not."

Let's break down a few of those definitions above for faithfulness. Are you true to your word? Can people trust your word? Are you steady in your allegiance to God, your spouse, your family, your leader(s), your church, or employer? I'm just asking. Are you constant and reliable? Can you be trusted and believed? If you answered "yes" to these questions you are more than likely faithful and you are a blessing to others! The truth is faithfulness is not hereditary, you must learn it and apply it. It must be cultivated and developed. "How can I develop and cultivate faithfulness?" you ask. Start with God as your example. Also look for humans that have developed faithfulness in their walk with Him. There's no doubt you will find faithfulness as a fruit of their life too. While there is a shortage of faithfulness among Christ-followers these days, there still are those who understand and walk in faithfulness. How do you notice them? Actually they stick out like a sore thumb!

Remember, faithfulness always has as its target others. Faithfulness is God's heart for people applied through people. Faithfulness is a major vehicle for God's love to be distributed to others. Faithfulness will cause nonbelievers to trust your character and eventually God Himself!