2 Timothy 3:14 But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you.

One definition of faithfulness is to be “steadfast in one’s allegiance or affection.” Life has a way of testing the commitment of being steadfast. Life attempts to lessen your allegiance and to steal your affection. The enemy knows if he can get you to compromise your faithfulness then he can marginalize your effectiveness and influence as a Christ-follower. Paul writes about three different scenarios when it is important for God’s people to remain faithful.

Remain faithful when times are hard.
2 Timothy 3:1 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. Remaining faithful requires us to keep trusting, believing, serving, and seeking God even when the conditions seem difficult. Faithfulness is not the result of a life of ease but rather the result of a determined decision to persevere no matter the outward circumstance.

Remain faithful when it seems counter-culture.
2 Timothy 3:2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. Paul knew that a day would come when not only would people be unfaithful but that faithfulness itself would no longer be valued. A selfish love for oneself will always work to sabotage your faithfulness to God. Self preservation is often at odds with true dedication to God and His work. In a season where everyone is looking out for number one, remaining faithful requires you to keep God as the first priority in your life.

Remain faithful when shortcuts seem rewarding.
2 Timothy 3:13 But evil people and impostors will flourish. They will deceive others and will themselves be deceived. Faithfulness requires having a clear understanding of who you are trying to please. Paul lets Timothy know that if you look around it will seem that those who are doing evil are progressing faster than those who are doing right. Remaining faithful means having a good grip on pleasing God and trusting Him to produce His fruit in our lives.

Today’s Challenge: Remain faithful because you know God always keeps His word.
2 Timothy 3:14 But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. The best time to be faithful is now. Now is the time God has given you. Now is your opportunity to step out in faith, trust God in faith, and keep persevering in faith. Faithfulness is not the result of a past decision or a future opportunity. Faithfulness is about choosing God’s way today.