The Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness

Definition

Maintaining faith or allegiance; showing a strong sense of duty or conscientiousness. With that notion of firm support as the bedrock for faith, words such as “firmness,” “constancy,” or “trustworthiness” best convey the related concept of faithfulness.

Faith is more than momentary assent to the truth of God. It is commitment to that truth, and it manifests itself in continued obedience. Abraham assented to, relied upon, and acted in conformity to the revealed Word of God.

Faithfulness, must not be viewed as an isolated act. Rather it is an attitude that should characterize the entire life of those who say they have faith in God (emphasizing a relationship with God).

God’s Faithfulness

God always keeps his word

God always stays true to his people

God always stays faithful to himself

Gentleness in Scripture

4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (John 5:4-5)

18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)

2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

Gospel

God is faithful to be holy (sin and Christ).

Conclusion

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)