September 30

Faithfulness

His master replied, ‘Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very small matter, you shall have authority over ten cities.’ — Luke 19:17 BSB

Faithfulness is a quality that Scripture holds in high regard. It’s not about achieving greatness or doing remarkable things, unless that’s specifically what God calls us to do. For most of us, faithfulness means simply doing the duties that come our way each day with integrity and dedication. It means being true to the relationships we’re in, resisting temptation, and using the gifts God has given us for His glory and the good of others. While the world celebrates success, God celebrates faithfulness.

Jesus teaches us that being faithful in this life prepares us for greater responsibility in the life to come. Our time on earth is a kind of probation, a test to see who will be trustworthy with the tasks of eternity. The real life begins after this one, and those who are faithful here will be entrusted with much more in God’s kingdom.

This truth should inspire us. Every task we do well here is preparation for the greater tasks awaiting us in heaven. Many people, as they near the end of their lives, wish they could start over, with all the wisdom they’ve gained. The good news is that if they’ve been faithful, they will get that chance. In God’s eternal kingdom, we will begin again, but this time with all the experience and wisdom we’ve gained, ready to serve God more fully.