We could list a number of characteristics of an effective ministry worker. Reliability could be one of them because of the difference it makes in ministry.
Why Reliability Matters in Ministry
Reliability makes a difference in ministry for a number of reasons:
1) It captures people’s attention, making a good impression on them.
2) People sense that they are valued when we go the extra mile to be there.
3) Reliable leaders, teachers, and ministry workers bring a sense of stability to our churches.
What a welcomed change from what people experience around them in a world of political unrest and so much uncertainty! — “Putting confidence in an unreliable person in times of trouble is like chewing with a broken tooth or walking on a lame foot.” (Prov. 25:19, NLT)
How to Become More Reliable
Since reliability has such a positive effect, certainly we would do well to become more reliable. Consider what it takes:
Reinforcement: We reap what we sow (Gal. 6:7-8). As we yield our lives to the Spirit, walking in Him rather than gratifying our flesh, He builds into us positive qualities that make us more reliable (Gal. 5:22-23).
Reliance: When we turn to God as our primary source of help in ministry, He provides the wisdom and power needed to become more and more reliable. — “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life …” (2 Pet. 1:3)
Reset: If we build some rest and relaxation into our busy schedules, in the long run, we’ll become more reliable. When over-worked and stressed, we tend to make more mistakes, take shortcuts, and become more susceptible to frustration. It’s hard to give our best effort when exhausted. God instituted the Sabbath for a reason (Ex. 20:8).
Reflect on how reliable you are in ministry. Ask God, by His Spirit, to reinforce within you the qualities you need to be more reliable. Rely on His power, not self-determination. Take time to reset. God says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Ps. 46:10)