In a previous post we looked at some characteristics of an effective ministry worker. Reliability could have been added to the list.
Reliability makes a difference in ministry because it captures attention and impresses upon people that they are valued enough for you to go the extra mile to be there. Reliable leaders, teachers, and ministry workers, bring a sense of stability to our churches, a welcomed change from what people are experiencing around them in a world of political unrest and so much uncertainty.
3 R’s That Will Help Us be More Reliable:
1) Reinforcement
We need to yield our lives to God for Him to build into us positive qualities that will make us more reliable, such as the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23). We will reap what we sow (Gal. 6:7-8), so we need to make sure the right things are being sown into our lives.
2) Resources
We need to know where to turn for help in ministry. First and foremost, we must turn to God for “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life” (2 Pet. 1:3). We will be most reliable when we do ministry His way and in His power.
3) Recreation
If you are over-worked and stressed, you will tend to make more mistakes and be more susceptible to frustration which spills over into relationships. It’s hard to give your best effort when you are exhausted. God instituted the Sabbath for a reason (Ex. 20:8). We need to build some rest and relaxation into our busy schedules so in the long run, we are more reliable.