The Fruit of Faithfulness

June 29, 2022
Midweek Study with Pastor Edith

As we work through the nine characteristics of being filled with the Holy Spirit, I am reminded again that my tree of faith needs constant attention. There are pests that want to infest. There are dry spells that require the water of the Word more intentionally. There are times of harvest when I need to pluck and share so that others can benefit and be encouraged.

Today, my husband Mark has chosen the fruit of faithfulness. In Galatians 5:22-23, it is listed as the seventh fruit and is bursting with meaning; “standing fast, steadfastness, loyal, devoted, tried, constant, reliable, unwavering, trustworthy, dependable, resolute, honest, punctual, and steady…It also speaks of endurance—a firmness of purpose, especially when the living is tough. It is a more than a ‘grin-and-bear-it’ kind of attitude” (Nine Fruits of the Spirit by Robert Strand, Faithfulness pgs. 9-10).

One of the more obvious ways faithfulness is demonstrated is in our day-to-day relationships with other people. People, by nature, seem to have a difficult time staying faithful. We drift in our commitment to God, and we become weak in our commitments to one another.

I sense in my own life, a greater awareness that I need to be more committed and grow my roots of faithfulness for my family, my congregations, my community and yes, myself. Perhaps you are sensing that too. Daily news broadcasts, blogs and articles and posts on the internet can often leave me feeling hopeless for authentic, faithful relationships to exist. Yet, I am wooed by God to his word and I find hope. It comes with singing; “I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself” (Psalm 89:1-2).

I love the hymn Great is Thy Faithfulness, written by Thomas O. Chisolm in 1923: “Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, there is no shadow of turning with thee; thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not; as thou hast been, thou forever wilt be…” You might enjoy singing the chorus as you go about your day.

Be faithful.

AMEN!