Trustworthy

This is the way any person is to regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.—1 Corinthians 4:1–2 NASB

Advertising: a constant factor in our lives. We see ads on television and streaming services. We hear them on the radio. We receive advertising messages through email and text messages. To understand how to do effective advertising, researchers spend millions of dollars, examining results and learning what works best.

According to a recent study, the key to successful advertising is “earning consumer trust.” This is why word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family are so influential. Why? Because they tend to be trusted.

These results confirm biblical principles: We tend to trust people who are trustworthy, those who don’t just say things but keep their promises.

Jesus taught that we should only speak words that we mean. We are to let our statement be, “‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil origin” (Matthew 5:37).

We demonstrate that we are ready for greater blessings by being trustworthy. As Jesus said, “If you have not been faithful in the use of unrighteous wealth, who will entrust the true wealth to you?” (Luke 16:10–11).

Ask God to help you be trustworthy. Remember, other people are listening to you. They are watching. They know when you make promises and if you keep them.

You can trust God, for He always is faithful. You can trust everything He says and does (Psalm 33:4). Remember, you are His witness, giving testimony to the truth of the Gospel.

Reflection Question: How are you demonstrating your trustworthiness?