DAILY DEVOTION, Oct. 25, 2021

The next fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23 is “faithfulness.” Faith always leads to faithfulness. Some declare, “I have faith,” but signs of faithfulness are hard to find. True Christians are so grateful for God’s redeeming love that they have an innate desire to serve Him with undying loyalty.  Jesus was faithful to God the Father even when it led Him to the cross. John refers to Jesus as the One who is “faithful and true” (Revelation 19:11).  Jesus was “faithful as a son over God’s house” (Hebrews 3:6). Jesus was the faithful one, and we are His disciples.

Jesus once reprimanded a group of religious leaders. They were faithful to all the outward requirements of the law. They were scrupulous in their tithing. But they neglected the more important matters, one of which is faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). The outward rituals of discipleship are important: tithing, baptism, communion, church service, etc. But one can perform the outward rituals and neglect faithfulness. Those who are faithful to God are dependable in their service to the Master. We are admonished to “Be faithful to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).  If we believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God, we will seek to be faithful to Him whatever the cost.

Father, I know that I am called to be faithful, but I confess there are times when that is difficult. Therefore, please forgive me when I fail and give me the strength to live as a faithful believer in Jesus. In His holy name, I pray, Amen.