“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:17
How many times have you said you would do something but you didn’t follow through? How often are you late to work or to meet people? When someone tells you their problems, are you emotionally available, or are you distracted with your own problems, or busy texting while you attempt to listen? How many times have you cheated and lied? The question is, can people count on you? When we were drinking or using, chances are good that the answer was no. Now that we are clean and sober, are we more reliable? I hope so.
We become reliable in the same manner that we become connected with God. We right size our egos, we surrender to God we and accept life, and we put ourselves into service. We also become mindful of our actions and what the consequences to others might be. We become aware that our lack of follow through, our tardiness, our dishonesty, and our multitasking in conversations is disrespectful. We consciously think about our behavior and strive to act respectful in all situations.
We also think about our relationship with God. Can God count on us? We show our love and respect for God by keeping his commandments. (1 John 5:3.) We serve God, and only God. (Matthew 4:8-10) We praise God, in all things, and with great joy. (Psalm 150:1-6). We put God first, everyday.
God sets a fine example for us to follow. We can always count on Him. He never changes. He never falters. He is always there. He is always ready and willing to listen. He loves us every second of every day. We don’t have to do anything for that love; it is freely given. We can strive to model His perfection, knowing that we will, of course, fall short. But we can do our best to be reliable and dependable, someone that God and others can count on.
F.R.O.G. Practice: Be aware of your actions today. Are they respectful of God, others and yourself? Will you keep your word, be on time and be fully present in the company of others? Will you be truthful and honest today?
