Prove Yourself Trustworthy - DEVELOP QUALITIES THAT HELP YOU TO BE TRUSTWORTHY

 Discernment will help a Christian to distinguish between "a time to be silent and a time to speak." (Ecclesiastes 3:7)  "Speech is silver but silence is golden" is a common expression in some cultures.  In other words, there are times when it is better to keep quiet than to speak.  Appropriately, Proverbs 11:12 advises: "The man of true discernment remains silent." Consider an example.  One experienced elder is often asked to help other congregations with their challenging problems.  Commenting on this, a fellow elder said,"He is always careful never to share sensitive information about other congregations." The elder's discernement has earned him the respect  of the brothers with whom he serves on the body of elders.  They are certain that he will not reveal their confidential matters to others.

Honesty is another element of trust.  We trust an honest person because we kow that he will always speak the truth. (Ephesians 4:25; Hebrews 13:18)  For instance, suppose  you want to improve your teaching ability. So you ask someone to listen to your talk and offer helpful suggestions on how you can improve.  Whom would you trust to give you honest feedback? Would it be someone who tells you what you want to hear or someone who kindly tells you the trusth? The answer is obvious.  The Bible says: "Open reproof is better than concealed love.  The wounds inflicted by a friend aree faithful." (Proverbs 27:5, 6) Although difficult to hear at first, a friend's honest comments are what will benefit us in the long run.

Next time: Prove Yourself Trustworthy - DEVELOP QUALITIES THAT HELP YOU TO BE TRUSTWORTHY

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