As I look back over fifty years of ministry, I recall innumerable tests, trials and times of crushing pain. But through it all, the Lord has proven faithful, loving, and totally true to all his promises. —David Wilkerson, author of The Cross and the Switchblade
Before my father passed on to be with Jesus, I used to think about what I would say at his memorial service. I hoped it would sound something like, “My dad was faithful to his wife and faithful to his calling.” The word “faithful” in that context means that you kept your promises and followed through with what you said you were going to do.
But that’s not the only use of the word “faithful” we need to understand.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to God’s people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. (Colossians 1:1-2)
The simplicity here is wonderful. Paul uses his introduction to give them the most encouraging compliment one can give: Calling them faithful. How are they faithful? Because they simply believed and trusted in God.
We don’t always get it perfectly right. But the pattern of our lives should show evidence of saying “yes” to God more often than not. We believe in Him, trust in Him, and put all our hopes in Him. At the end of our own lives, no other eulogy would be necessary than being remembered for putting our hope in Christ. The Bible is so clear about this. We can be faithful because Christ in us is faithful:
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)
Lord, I want to be Your faithful servant. I want to be known as devoted to You above all. You are faithful. Empower me to be faithful to You, for it is my heart’s desire. Amen.