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Chapter 9.3 - Faithfulness

Faithfulness

What is faithfulness?  At face value, the word looks like it means, "Full of faith" or to be believing. Certainly a leader needs to be full of faith, but for some additional clarity let's look at the dictionary definition:

Faithful (adjective)

  1. strict or thorough in the performance of duty:a faithful worker.
  2. true to one's word, promises, vows, etc.
  3. steady in allegiance or affection; loyal; constant:faithful friends.
  4. reliable, trusted, or believed.
  5. adhering or true to fact, a standard, or an original; accurate: a faithful account; a faithful copy.
  6. Obsolete. full of faith; believing.

According to the dictionary the "full of faith" definition is obsolete.  Now words like strict and thorough in the performance of duty, true to one's word, steady, loyal, reliable, and trusted are more representative synonyms.

Look how Elder L. Tom Perry tied faithfulness to obedience.
Too often we think of obedience as the passive and thoughtless following of the orders or dictates of a higher authority. Actually, at its best, obedience is an emblem of our faith in the wisdom and power of the highest authority, even God. When Abraham demonstrated his unwavering faithfulness and obedience to God, even when commanded to sacrifice his son, God rescued him. Similarly, when we demonstrate our faithfulness through obedience, God will ultimately rescue us. (L Tom Perry, "Obedience Through our Faithfulness", April 2014 General Conference)

Why does a leader need the trait of faithfulness?  This trait has a direct relationship to the amount of trust you are able to build between you and the people you lead.  In his book "The Speed of Trust” Stephen M.R. Covey said that trust is built on character an competence.  Faithfulness is a trait that helps establish character.  As you are strict in the performance of your duties, true to your word, and loyal, your character will become a person that with worth of trust and builds trust in their relationships.

For additional insight, consider these scriptures:
D&C 107:99–100
Alma 53:20-21
Mosiah 5:15
Alma 48:13
Helaman 10:4
D&C 82:24
D&C 84:80
JS-H 1:59

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