Faithfulness

Being faithful is defined in the dictionary as being loyal, constant and steadfast. So faithfulness is when we put these words into action, like when we stick by our friends and loved ones and remain faithful to them even when difficult—caring for them even when they are ungracious or unkind. God is faithful to all of us, and by His faithfulness, we can continue living as His sons and daughter in this world.

In Genesis, the story of Abraham demonstrates the importance of faithfulness. Abraham and his wife Sarah struggled to trust God but learned faithfulness’s value when they submitted to Him. Abraham and Sarah waited many years for God to fulfil His promise of giving them a son. Because of her lack of faith, Sarah insisted on Hagar, her Egyptian handmaid, giving birth to her son. The result was pain and conflict. However, when Abraham and Sarah put their faith in God, Sarah was able to give birth to Isaac despite Abraham being one hundred years old.

Ultimately, the story of Abraham shows how God blesses those who are faithful and trust in His plans. Can you think of a time when God was faithful?

So, how do we grow in our faithfulness?

  • Be unwavering in your belief in Him. Be steadfast, Paul says. (1 Cor. 15:58)
  • Separate yourself from the world’s thought patterns and practices. (Romans 12:1-2)
  • Choose to do what is right all the time even if it means persecution (Matthew 10:22-33)
  • Obey what God said in his word. Jesus said that if you love Him, you should do what He says. (John 14:15)
  • Love your neighbours in obedience. He loves everyone in the world (John 3:16). It matters to Him that we love our neighbours too.

My challenge to you is this:

Consider how you show your faithfulness to God. Are there things that are getting in the way of your faith? What areas of your life have you not given over to Him? Through prayer, ask God to make these things clear to you so that He can grow your faithfulness.

Pray this week, ask God for His Spirit, and ask His Spirit to dwell in and change you.

Written by Kirsten Davidson, Fundraiser for Swindon Youth for Christ