Being the Best Vs. Being Faithful

I'm not an athlete by any stretch of the imagination, but I go to the gym consistently. I wouldn't call myself super fit, but my faithfulness produces long term effects--greater endurance, flexibility, a better immune system. These results do not come because I'm so good at anything I do there. Trust me. I can't bear to look at myself in the mirrors at the aerobics class I attend. I know how uncoordinated and awkward I can be, yet my body benefits because I'm faithful.

Why don't I apply that to other areas of my life? I'm not the greatest at anything I do, yet my exercising experience tells me results don't come by being the best. They come by being faithful.

I'm not the best mother in the world, but I have good relationships with my kids because I'm around. It's not that I'm an expert in childrearing, but that I'm faithful to being a part of their lives.

For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever, but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off.

Psalm 27:28

I'm not the best friend in the world with the ability to say all the right things, yet I have wonderful friends. I'm not especially astute or wise, but I'm available, offering a consistent, sympathetic ear.

for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.

Proverbs 2:8

I'm not the best Bible study leader, but I get to do it because I'm reliable, willing to put in extra time to see what God says about any question I might have.

All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant.

Psalm 25:10

I'm not the most creative writer in the world, but when I'm faithful to do it anyway, God gives ideas and strengthens my skills. He brings opportunities when I'm willing to write what He asks without regard for compensation.

Love the Lord, all his saints! The Lord preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full.

Psalm 31:2

I will never be the BEST at anything, but God values faithfulness more.

To the faithful you show yourself faithful. . .

Psalm 18:25

Praise the Lord it doesn't matter in God's eyes how accomplished or skilled or enlightened we are. He'll use anyone who consistently does what He asks.

Faithfulness, not amazing ability, produces long term, beautiful results.