Today I am thankful for faithfulness. Faithfulness is a subject that I hold close to my heart, and maybe that is because I know what it is like when those whom you expect to be faithful to you are not. The dictionary defines faithfulness by instead defining faithful. It follows that in order to be faithful one must “be strict or thorough in the performance of a duty; true to one’s word, promises, vows; steady in allegiance or affection; reliable, trusted, or believed.”
I do not know about you, but I had to take a few moments to just sit and really think about that definition. I think that when most of us think of the word “faithful” we think of the portion of the definition that addresses being true to one’s vows (i.e. faithful as it relates to romantic relationships). But there is much more to it than that.
In order to be a faithful person you must be committed and your actions must be evidence of that commitment. You must stay true to your word, even when the temptation to abandon your word arises, regardless of the circumstances. To be classified as faithful your allegiance to someone and/or something must be unwavering, firm, and immovable. And in order to be considered faithful you must prove yourself to be reliable, trustworthy, and loyal. And faithfulness is the exhibition of these qualities.
Faithfulness means that you are there for someone even when you could very well be somewhere else. It means that when sacrifices are necessary you make them. It means that when you give someone your word, whether expressly or implied, you keep it. It means that people can and should rightfully allow themselves to be vulnerable enough with you to trust you, depend on you, and believe you because your actions and the way that you carry yourself have made it clear that doing so would be wise. Unfortunately, however, faithfulness is a concept that is rarely present in this day and age, as so many people are solely concerned with themselves – what they want, what will benefit them, and what will make them happy.
I am fortunate enough to have some wonderful people in my life whose lives demonstrate the continued existence of faithfulness, which in ways makes it much easier for me to notice the overall lack of faithfulness in this world. Ambition is a good thing, having talent is a great thing, and being goal-oriented is wonderful, but without faithfulness any margin of success that we experience will be hollow. And it is this concept which we must grab ahold of if we want to live lives of quality and purpose. #lovebythedrop
love by the drop 