Regaining Lost Credibility

For communications to be credible, trustworthiness must be the dominant attribute in each person’s character. In the initial days of most relationships, credibility in what is communicated is taken as reality since there isn't cause for doubt or disbelief. Therefore effective communication is inherently dependent upon integrity and honesty.

  

Credibility is definitely lost through dishonest communications, which ironically reveal the truth concerning a person’s character. Every child will at times fail to tell the truth, especially if he or she is in danger of facing punishment. However, some people distort the truth simply because it’s become a habit in the way they communicate.

Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples, lost credibility when he was asked, “Don’t you know Jesus?” He denied ever knowing Jesus. Credibility must be protected for it will be needed in every area of life. Ephesians 4:25 states, “You must put aside every falsehood and practice telling the truth.” Always be ready to defend your credibility with the truth.

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Then take on an entirely new way of life – a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you.

~Ephesians 4:23-24 The Message

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Trustworthiness: Essential to Reconciliation

Making amends is usually a give-and-take affair between two people, with each person being equally responsible for the success of the effort. The one seeking to make amends must demonstrate humility and sincerity in addition to presenting an attitude of trustworthiness.

  

          The one receiving the offer of reconciliation is responsible for being receptive with humility and sincerity. Esau had every right to hesitate when Jacob attempted to make amends for cheating him out of his birthright and his father's blessing. Instead he reached out to Jacob with love and forgiveness because he saw trustworthiness in Jacob that could not be denied.

          Trustworthiness is essential when one seeks to make amends. For fellowship to be restored, the recipient is responsible for receiving it with an attitude of humility. Esau reached out to Jacob with the blessing of peace by giving him a hug and a kiss. This clearly opened the door for God to bless both brothers. What greater reward could there be for making amends?