Faithfulness

What comes to mind when you hear the word “faithfulness”? For me, it is my first dog, “Ginger”. I called her “Gigi” because I couldn’t say her name when I started talking as a toddler. I loved that dog, probably the same way you love your pet. I grew up with her. She followed me everywhere I went, even when I started riding a bike all over the neighborhood. I remember when Gigi started laboring as she tried to keep up with me the summer before fourth grade. That summer I parked my bike and started walking so she could stay with me. Sadly, I lost her that school year. It was a sad day. Gigi was a loyal, faithful friend to me.

Maybe you’ve been blessed to have a special pet like that too. Faithfulness is an attribute we see in our pets, but it should be an attribute for you and me too. In Acts 6 & 7, we meet a man who is described as “full of faith.” (Acts 6:5). Stephen is a model of faithfulness for us.

The words of Colossians 3:2-3 could have been written about the life of Stephen; but they should describe us too: 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:2-3

Stephen had his mind set on things above; his life, and death, proved that! He is an example of how every believer can strive to live: open to the call to serve others in Christ’s name; steadfast in the face of extreme opposition; knowing and sharing God’s Word with passion and conviction; and praying for those who are lost and far from God.

For much more, including some outstanding leadership principles offered by the apostles for avoiding and managing conflict in our lives, click here to listen to: Multiply - Part 6 - Hallmarks of Faithfulness.