“But they need not account for the money entrusted to them, because they are honest in their dealings.” (2 Kings 22:7)
Expanded Passage: 2 Kings 22:7
He was the dad of a dear friend who worked in the fishing industry. Prior to his conversion, his life was disordered and plagued by unwholesome habits. These patterns led to distrust, especially with the handling of money. Following his conversion, serious life change occurred. The man who had been distrusted became a man and employee who was fully reliable, even with money, because an encounter with Christ makes a difference.
I was once told that it is better to be trusted than to be loved. Over time I came to embrace this truth. Every person wants to be loved. We cannot find any exceptions to this, even though some may declare they do not care if anyone loves them or not. Love is largely emotionally based or circumstance controlled. Trust, on the other hand, is always character based. If faced with a love versus a trust decision, I want to be remembered as a leader who could be trusted.
The men from today’s reading had developed a reputation of complete integrity and faithfulness. The highest level of trust was present in these men who “handled the cash,” as it were. Their proven practice revealed that they were honest in all their dealings. What a compliment! No questionable activity. No cutting corners for their own benefit. No slightly shady deals. Trust.
Never underestimate the immense value of trust.
HC Wilson is General Superintendent Emeritus of The Wesleyan Church. He and his wife, Debby, reside in New Brunswick, Canada.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
