Strong spirits: what does it mean to be faithful?
Here's good news: God is always faithful, even when we are not.
Are you a faithful person? And what really does that mean?
One use of the term means loyal, trustworthy, devoted, committed. The U.S. Marines motto is "Semper Fi" for "semper fidelis," meaning always loyal or always faithful. To be faithful like this means we are not led astray. We stay true. We are reliable. We give our all.
Another use means faith-full. That is, full of faith. We trust. We act in faith at all times. We take risks and live full lives because we are confident in the one in whom we have placed our faith. We expect answers to our prayers.
Both of these meanings have application for those who follow Jesus, who have committed themselves to him. Ours is a life of faith from beginning to end. God offers us faith as we abide in him. He also expects us to exercise our faith in the trials and testings that inevitably come our way in life.
Here's good news: God is always faithful, even when we are not. We can fully rely on him.
"God is faithful and will not allow you to be tempted above your ability to endure." Paul the apostle (1 Corinthians 10:13)
"I do believe! Help me overcome my unbelief!" Man appealing to Jesus for his son (Mark 9:24)
"For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies." King David (Psalm 57:10)
Are you faithful?
Gary Schwerin serves as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life.
