Faithfulness
The dictionary defines faithfulness as the state of being faithful; the fact or quality of being true to one’s word or commitments, someone who has a firm and constant devotion to something or someone to which he or she is united by a promise or pledge.
How do we know that God is faithful? It is an inherent characteristic of God. In other words, God cannot be anything less than faithful. God is faithful in the past, is faithful now and will be in the future. God was faithful to Abraham with the covenant promise that He would provide descendants, land and blessings for His people. It is a promise He makes to us as we continue in faith and believe it. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful”. Hebrews 10:23
Also, God’s faithfulness is eternal so we know as our life receives blessings along with enduring hardships, He will be with us throughout. “For this I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The Lord’s loving kindness never ceases; His compassions never fail; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3: 21-23
What does Paul say about God’s faithfulness? In 2nd Thessalonians he speaks about the fact that there will be people who lack faith and are evil, but God is always faithful. No matter what difficulties Paul encountered as he preached the gospel, he kept his focus on God’s promises. Certainly with the affliction and intolerance Paul received by those opposed to his ministry, he believed the words he wrote; “but the Lord is faithful and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3 Paul wanted to reassure the believers in Thessalonica that God will be faithful to them as they continue the good work that Paul and others had exemplified. Those words of his are just as encouraging to us.
We will continue with God’s faithfulness next week….a few songs;