God’s faithfulness to us has never depended on our perfection. Dr. Stanley explores four ways we experience God’s fidelity in keeping His promises to His children. Relax into the trustworthy character of our heavenly Father—He will never leave or forsake you.
Sermon Outline
We often consider the faithfulness of God, but do we bring that same level of attention to our own? Being faithful makes us more Christlike—better able to serve, love, and help those who need us. This week, Dr. Stanley talks about being dependable in every circumstance.
Key Passage: Galatians 5:22
Supporting Passages: Genesis 32:9-10; Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 33:4; Psalm 36:5; Psalm 119:90; Lamentations 3:23; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Philippians 4:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:13; Hebrews 13:5; 1 John 1:9
Faithfulness is one of the most important qualities to cultivate, but how does that happen?
►“Do you look around at your life, see how faithful God has been, and feel grateful?”
Scripture declares God’s faithfulness. For example:
He is the faithful God who does what He promises (Deut. 7:9).
All His work is done in faithfulness (Ps. 33:4).
His faithfulness reaches to the skies (36:5).
His faithfulness continues throughout all generations (119:90).
Great is His faithfulness (Lam. 3:23).
When we are unfaithful, He remains faithful (2 Tim. 2:13).
He will never forsake us (Heb. 13:5).
The Holy Spirit …
Is responsible for guiding us and enabling us to be faithful.
Expresses qualities through us that are consistent with the character of God.
Enables us to live the Christian life.
Convicts us of sin when we are unfaithful.
► “We’re going to be tested and tried. You can expect that.”
What are some examples of God’s faithfulness? He …
Forgives our sin (1 John 1:9).
Limits the power of our temptation (1 Cor. 10:13).
Provides peace (Phil. 4:7).
Limits the power of Satan in our life (2 Thess. 3:3).
Faithfulness, which is evidence of walking in the Spirit (Gal. 5:22), ought to be part of our character. It shows we are who we say we are and do what we say we’ll do. A faithful lifestyle means we are …
Devoted to God—He’s the One we follow.
Loyal—We do what we say, give what we promise, and help when we commit.
Unwavering—We’re the same every day, regardless of what’s happening in our life.
Steadfast—We’re steady, solid, and not shaken by circumstances.
Trustworthy—People know they can believe our word.
Dependable—When we say we’ll be there, we will be.
Obedient—We attempt to follow God to the best of our ability.
Fruitful—Our life makes a difference and influences others.
►“When you’re faithful, you’re fruitful. Your life is making a difference in somebody else’s.”
After Watching
Think of someone you know who is faithful, devoted, loyal, unwavering, steadfast, trustworthy, and dependable. You can learn from him or her! Reach out this week and ask if you can meet to discuss your desire to grow in faithfulness. This could be done in person, via a phone or video call, or even through email or text.
When you face temptation, remember that God has put a limitation on it and provided a way of escape. (See 1 Cor. 10:13.) How does knowing about God’s faithfulness change the way you handle temptation?
This post is a part of the series Expressing Godly Character.
