Loyalty

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Loyalty vs. Infidelity Loyalty is the bonding of individuals in a long-term commitment of sacrificial support and defense.

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oyalty is exchanging “open accounts” on our time, energy, and possessions with others. “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.” —II Corinthians 8:9

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ne of the benefits of being falsely accused is discovering the level of loyalty of those around you.

The Canada goose protects its nest from intruders and will even lay down its own life in defense of its lifelong mate.

Definition The word loyalty is not found in Scripture. The word faithfulness would at first appear to be a synonym. However, faithfulness and dependability relate to the work or service that a person performs, whereas loyalty involves a much deeper, long-term relationship. The Biblical concepts that best describe loyalty are blood covenants, bond servant relationships, and marriage vows.

Why Is Loyalty Important? Every important relationship in life must be built on loyalty. Marriages must be based on this quality or they will not survive. Leaders look for this quality as a primary qualification for those who serve. Most of all, God requires loyalty of His disciples, and especially in the lives of those whom He uses mightily.

Loyalty in Covenants The Hebrew word for covenant is beriyth. It conveys the idea of cutting a compact by passing between pieces of flesh. God illustrates this word in the covenant that He made with Abraham. This and other covenants are rich with symbolism that describes the depth and meaning of loyalty. 128

Loyalty

1. A covenant is made with those of like spirit. God said to Abraham, “I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect” (Genesis 17:1). Note: Scripture calls Abraham the friend of God and the father of faith. (See James 2:23 and Galatians 3:6–9.)

2. A covenant requires an initiator, who assumes the greater responsibility in maintaining the covenant. “I will make my covenant between me and thee” (Genesis 17:2). Note: In marriage, the man initiates the covenant and therefore has the greater responsibility to maintain it. 3. A covenant often involves a name change. “Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram” (Genesis 17:5). Note: A name change also occurs in a marriage as the wife takes on the husband’s name and in salvation as we take on Christ’s name. 4. The purpose of a covenant is to multiply benefits and fruitfulness. “I will make thee exceeding fruitful” (Genesis 17:6). Note: These purposes are fulfilled with children in a marriage and spiritual children in salvation. 5. A covenant has relationships that last beyond the lifetimes of the covenant makers. “Thou shalt keep my covenant therefore, thou, and thy seed after thee in their generations” (Genesis 17:9).

The Power for True Success, ©2001 by the Institute in Basic Life Principles • www.iblp.org


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