If you want to be happy, become somebody that people trust.
Paul uses Timothy as an example of this: “You know the kind of person Timothy is. You know he has served with me in telling the Good News, as a son serves his father” (Philippians 2:22 NCV).
Paul had seen Timothy in action, in all kinds of circumstances, and Paul considered him genuine, trustworthy, and reliable. Another translation of Philippians 2:22 says, “You know what kind of person Timothy proved to be” (GW). Do people know what kind of person you really are? Have you been proven trustworthy like Timothy?
Anytime you go to a bank for a loan, they do a credit check. They want to know if you’re worthy of being trusted with credit. Do you pay your bills on time? Do you have a track record of keeping your word? Will you pay this money back? Are you dependable and creditable and reliable?
The thing is, everybody around you is doing a credit check on you every moment of your life. They want to know if you are what you say you are. Are you the real deal? Are you showing your true colors? Can you be trusted?
If you’re going to be happy in your relationships and in life, you have to be a trustworthy and reliable person.
How do you develop a reputation of reliability?
First, you live with integrity. Integrity doesn’t mean you’re perfect. It means what you see is what you get. You are the real deal, because your actions match your words.
Proverbs 25:13 says, “Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing!” (The Message).
Second, you keep your promises.
Psalm 15:4 says, “They always do what they promise, no matter how much it may cost” (GNT).
Learning to live with integrity and keep your promises will show others that you can be trusted and will also make you a much happier person.
PLAY today’s audio teaching from Pastor Rick
Talk It Over
Why do you think the Bible compares a reliable friend to a refreshing drink in sweltering heat? What is the value of a trustworthy friend?
Do you consider yourself to be a person of integrity? Why or why not?
When are you most tempted to live your life differently in different situations?
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