Undependable people contribute so much–much frustration, much disappointment, much friction…. We should all be dependable. You probably know little about Shelemiah, Zadok, Pedaiah, and Hanon. Little is said about them. But listen to what is said. They were placed in charge of the storehouses of Israel because “they were considered reliable” (Neh. 13:13). What a glowing tribute. On the other hand, David wrote of some wicked individuals, of whom he said, “There is nothing reliable in what they say” (Ps. 5:9). Too many otherwise good people are leaving such a reputation for themselvee. In frustration, sometimes elders may join Solomon in asking, “Who can find a trustworthy man?” (Prov. 20;6). But, good news! We can all be dependable. Why?

First, we are ABLE. God blesses us with talents, time, and treasure. With them, we can (as good stewards) use our resources to God’s glory. If somethings hinders us from doing our duty, we can let others know and cover for us. But, whenever and wherever and however we can, we use ourselves as workers in the kingdom (Matt. 9:37).

Second, we are DEPENDENT. God pours blessings into our lives. Without Him, we’re nobody (Jn. 15:5). Except God provided all our needs (cf. Phil. 4:19), we would be nowhere and have nothing. We are obligated, and our best efforts could never earn or repay God’s graciousness (Lk. 17:10). But, surely, appreciating His grace, we’ll be workmen (Eph. 2:8,10). When needs are made known by our elders or others–food or teachers or folks to visit or calls to make or new Christians to aid or missions to encourage or elderly, shut-ins to help–let us remember our dependence upon God and be dependable for those around us dependent upon us.

Finally, you are thereby DEEPENED. When we do what we can in the kingdom, giving it our best, we are enriched and strengthened. Our relationship with Christ is deepened, for we’re imitating Him. Our appreciation for God’s blessings is deepened when we sacrifice and extend ourselves. Our faith is deepened by our interaction wth those in need and by our participation in what needs doing. Our joy is deepened by being active and involved in the Lord’s work.

One “church song” asks, “Can He Depend On You?” If He has no hands but our hands to do His work today, we must not let our hands sit idle. Christianity is a commitment. It’s a wonderful commitment, but commitment nonetheless. Let’s take is seriously and be someone upon whom our brethren and our God can rely!

Neal Pollard