Proverbs 20:6

Jeb Stuart was the Civil War's version of a B-2 Stealth Bomber. This gallant, and gusty West Point graduate had an uncanny ability to infiltrate the federal lines without being detected. On the Confederate side he was nicknamed "the eyes of the army," and was unquestionably one of General Robert E. Lee's most trusted soldiers. On several occasions, he outflanked General McClellan's lines, destroying munitions, gathering vital information about the enemy's strength, and even confiscating secret documents. Stuart's brawn, and brains as an intelligence officer were unparalleled in Civil War battles. With each mission, Stuart would submit his report to Lee, signed, "Yours to count on, Jeb Stuart."

Being able to count on someone or something is a blessing! Dependability is a wonderful thing! It draws us to the same restaurant again and again. It brings security to relationships, and builds lasting friendships. It sells cars, washing machines, and computers. It adds weight to our Christian testimony. In the end it will win the well done of God. Faithfulness toward man and God is a thing of great value, and its worth is heightened by the fact that it a rare jewel. In Proverbs 20:6 we read, "Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, but who can find a faithful man?" The wise writer of Proverbs is reminding us that a faithful man is a rare find! People who profess their love and loyalty are a dime a dozen, but a man who actually delivers on his promises is an exception (Psa. 12:1). It is one thing to tout one's own virtues, but quite another to be virtuous. Many people profess "unfailing love" but such professions often ring hollow. Men are alike in their promises. It is only in their deeds that they differ.

Surely, this rare jewel is what makes the Lord Jesus such a treasure to us. One of the most charming characteristics of Christ is His constancy (Heb. 13:8). He is faithful in His witness to the truth (Rev. 3:14). He is faithful in His work as our advocate (1 John 1:9). He is faithful in lending help to His people (Heb. 2:17-18). He is faithful to complete His work of salvation in us (1 Thess. 5:23-24). Great is His faithfulness (Lam. 3:23). And that which we find in Him, He seeks to work in us through the Spirit (Gal. 5:22). We can be faithful through the power of the indwelling Spirit.

May our Lord find us faithful when He comes (Luke 18:8)! May we show faithfulness in the tough times! When faithfulness is most difficult, it is most necessary. May we show faithfulness in the little things! A little thing is a little thing; but faithfulness in the little things is a very great thing. Who is counting on you, and can you be counted on?