Loyalty

The word "loyal" comes from the same Hebrew word as "firm." The Psalmists continuously refer to the Lord as a firm place to stand...a rock...a steadfast refuge from the storm. I've been meditating on the word "loyal" recently...What does it mean and how does it play out in my life?
I think it means that you make up your mind in advance that no matter what happens, you'll be faithful. In your mind you're decided on a response to inevitable temptation.
A loyal spouse doesn't wait until someone hits on him or her to choose to deny the advance. That decision should've been made in his or her heart & mind long before such a scenario arose.
I've had people betray me and not keep promises made. I'm experiencing the ripple effects of disloyalty in my life. There's not a whole lot you can do to repair broken trust. It's gone in an instant and it can take years to build back up.
I could not lean on the Lord for all understanding if I didn't trust Him, if He didn't prove Himself faithful to me every day. I have full faith in the Lord that no matter what happens I can stand firm in Him and His promises that He'll never forsake me.
I'm lucky to have a few people in my life who've proven themselves loyal...I found myself in a mess this summer and needed to escape. In an instant, my mother booked my ticket home. It was a financial stretch...but cost didn't play a factor for her. She came through for me without question. Meanwhile I returned the favor by eloping with someone who did not earn my family's trust. It sure stung, but they still stood by me and celebrated my hasty decision by offering us an all-expense paid vacation to the islands.
It was a wonderful time and Jeff got to meet my grandparents. When I hugged them goodbye, my grandfather turned to Jeff and said, "You better take care of her. If you don't, she knows she can always come home. I'll take care of everything." I know they've got my back, no matter what careless decisions I make. I'm certain of my family's unconditional support and love and I'm so grateful for their example.