Dependability is an important character trait that is valued in the Bible. Here is an overview of some key biblical principles related to being dependable:
1. God is dependable and faithful
One of the central themes in Scripture is that God is dependable, faithful, and keeps His promises. For example:
“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.” (Deuteronomy 7:9)
“God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:9)
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23)
God’s dependability is contrasted with man’s undependability:
“If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself.” (2 Timothy 2:13)
Since God is perfectly dependable, we can fully rely on His character and promises. This gives us confidence and security.
2. We should strive to be dependable people
Because we are created in God’s image, we should aim to reflect His attributes of faithfulness and dependability:
“A faithful person will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.” (Proverbs 28:20)
Dependability requires maintaining our integrity and keeping our word:
“Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6)
“Better not to vow than to vow and not fulfill it.” (Ecclesiastes 5:5)
Part of being dependable is persevering diligently in our work and responsibilities:
“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.” (Luke 16:10)
When we are dependable people, others can trust us. This strengthens relationships and community.
3. Dependability in relationships
Marriage provides a great example of the importance of dependability. Spouses must faithfully fulfill their marital vows to each other:
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” (Hebrews 13:4)
More broadly, believers are called to dependably love one another:
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10)
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24)
We can count on fellow Christians for support and encouragement by God’s design for the church.
4. Being dependable workers
Employees are instructed to work wholeheartedly for their employers as if working for the Lord:
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ…Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.” (Ephesians 6:5,7)
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24)
When we work diligently and serve faithfully, we live out Christian principles and glorify God.
5. Dependability produces rewards
The Bible connects dependability with positive outcomes:
“Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.” (Psalm 112:5)
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5)
Of course, the supreme reward for faithful Christians is eternal life:
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:21)
So in summary, being dependable is portrayed very positively in the Bible. It reflects God’s attributes, strengthens relationships, enables good work, and ultimately leads to blessings. By becoming more dependable people, we can honor God and benefit those around us.
6. Dependability is linked to other virtues
There are other virtues that are closely tied to being dependable:
Responsibility – Dependable people follow through reliably on their obligations. “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Trustworthiness – Others can trust dependable people because they are honest and reliable. “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.” (Proverbs 10:9)
Self-control – Being dependable requires self-discipline to stay focused and avoid lazy habits. “Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” (Proverbs 25:28)
Wisdom – Dependable people make wise choices that set themselves up for success. “Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.” (Proverbs 16:20)
When we strengthen these related qualities, our dependability will also grow.
7. God helps us become more dependable
While we should make every effort to be dependable, ultimately it is God’s power that makes it possible:
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
“May the God of peace…equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him.” (Hebrews 13:20-21)
We depend on the Holy Spirit working within us:
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever – the Spirit of truth.” (John 14:16-17)
So we should ask God to develop this fruit of dependability in our lives for His glory.
8. Jesus as the model of dependability
Jesus perfectly demonstrated unwavering commitment and utter reliability in accomplishing God’s will:
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8 ESV)
He depended on God the Father and was faithful even through suffering and death:
“Abba,Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” (Mark 14:36)
Jesus’ ministry never wavered from beginning to end. He is our perfect model of steadfastness.
9. Promises for those who are dependable
Here are some key promises for those who faithfully follow the Lord:
– “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.” (Deuteronomy 7:9)
– “Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.” (Psalm 25:8-9)
– “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)
– “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” (Hebrews 6:10)
– “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:23)
As we serve God faithfully, we can trust His promises and gracious rewards.
10. Prayers for dependability
Here are some sample prayers related to cultivating greater dependability:
Lord, help me to be faithful in the small details each day. Give me strength and diligence to fulfill my duties wholeheartedly.
Jesus, you fulfilled your father’s will even through suffering. Empower me by your Spirit to persevere and remain steadfast, no matter what challenges come my way.
God, grow my capacity for self-control and discipline. Free me from laziness or apathy. Make me a trustworthy steward who depends on you for everything.
Father, I want to love and serve others as you have loved me. Help me be a consistent source of care, encouragement, and support in their lives.
Lord, thank you for remaining perfectly faithful even when I have been undependable. I pray your Spirit would produce dependability, integrity and consistency in me for your glory.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have explored many facets of biblical teaching about dependability. When we follow God faithfully, reflect His attributes, fulfill our responsibilities, strengthen our character, and rely on His power working within us, we can grow as more dependable people. This honors the Lord and blesses those around us. Let us each seek to exemplify the wonderful dependability modeled by Jesus Christ Himself.