Nehemiah 7:2 (KJV)
That I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many.
The Scripture unequivocally accentuates the appointment of Hanani and Hananiah to positions of utmost responsibility in Jerusalem because of their unwavering faithfulness and reverence for God. It unequivocally underscores the pivotal role of character and faithfulness in leadership. Nehemiah and the people had rebuilt the wall of Jerusalem, but the work of rebuilding God’s people continued to persist. Nehemiah had to leave Jerusalem to return to Persia, so he entrusted the task of overseeing the people to Hanani and Hananiah. These men were chosen because of their unwavering faithfulness and fear of God, making them more faithful than many others. Nehemiah needed strong and trustworthy men who could uphold the integrity of the office, work tirelessly for the welfare of the people, and remain unswayed by bribes. It is noteworthy that Nehemiah did not base his selection on superficial qualities such as good looks, charisma, wit, or political connections. Instead, he chose men based on their unshakable integrity and unwavering reverence for God. Nehemiah believed in the principle of faithfulness and sought truly God-fearing men.
Faithfulness can be defined as a dependable, constant, and unwavering trait, and the Bible portrays this trait in four different ways: as a Godly characteristic, as a positive attribute of some individuals, as a quality that many lack, and as a result of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. The concept of God’s faithfulness is reiterated repeatedly in the Scriptures. God has always kept His promises, even when they seemed unattainable. His words never go unfulfilled. God’s faithfulness is unwavering and eternal because it is one of His inherent attributes. Being faithful is essential to who He is, and He does not have to work at it. In His faithfulness, God protects us from evil, sets limits on our temptations, forgives us of sin, and sanctifies us. 1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” As God is faithful, we as His children need to be faithful, for the character of faithfulness is critical to life and destiny. God’s requirement of our faithfulness in stewardship applies to every area of our lives. No wonder men of great destiny and influence displayed the character of faithfulness and trustworthiness on their way to the top. Faithfulness is one of the most rewarding virtues. There is always a reward for being faithful. It guarantees us a fulfilling future and raises us above limitations.
Beloved, understand that faithfulness will market you in time and eternity. The time is coming when your faithfulness will speak for you in areas where your certificate and beauty cannot speak for you. Today, make up your mind to develop the character of faithfulness and trustworthiness, for it pays to be faithful; it has rewards not only in this life but in eternity. Your faithfulness towards the things of God will bring you blessings. Continue to be faithful in everything, for God, who pays according to your deeds, will bless you. Be faithful in your service and devotion to God and man. As a Christian, your faithfulness and dependability will be tested. In your walk with God, you will encounter difficult situations requiring you to make decisions. These decisions are indications to the Father whether you are trustworthy enough to move ahead to the next level of responsibility. So, refuse to be crooked in your dealings with God and people. Remember, God blesses a faithful person by committing more extraordinary things into their hands.
O Lord, I ask for the grace to maintain a lifestyle of faithfulness and reverence for You in Jesus’ Precious Name.