Imagine with me for a moment that you are sitting at your desk at work, whether it is a small cubicle or a large office, and your boss comes in with that look… You know which one I am talking about. The one that says I have something that I need you to do. Now the specific details of that look or the expectations of that boss are determined by what they expect or hope from you.

There are two very different character traits that determine those expectations. One is that your boss sees you as a dependable employee that works hard to be consistent in finishing given commitments. The other one is that your boss sees you as an inconsistent employee, therefore only giving you something of least importance that may not be in a rush to complete. Either way you are given a responsibility, but how the boss sees you is greatly different.

The definition of dependability is simply a reliable person that works hard to consistently honor their commitments. When given a job they always get it done. Inconsistency is someone who lets others down, by not completing give tasks.

We all know what it is like to have someone that is inconsistent at work with the tasks they are assigned.  Usually, people become disappointed, projects aren’t completed on time or to the right standard, and a lot of trust in that person is broken.

Proverbs 25:19 Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.

But when someone rises to the challenge and overcomes difficulties to fulfill their small, daily responsibilities, others begin to trust in that person to be reliable for greater opportunities in the future.

Luke 16:10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

Do you honor your commitments consistently or only occasionally?

If you are following through only for your own gain, you will likely compromise when you are no longer benefitting. When we focus on God’s love for others and seek their benefits first, rather than ourselves, we will not want to disappoint them.

When a dependable person makes a promise:
1. They will consider how quickly plans can change.
2. They will do their best to prevent the unexpected from hindering their commitments.
3. They will think ahead by setting their priorities in order.

Dependability may require less sleep, working longer hours, missing fun events, etc. but it gains, besides money, a reliable reputation and trustworthy character.

So, when your boss walks into your office what does his look tell you about your dependability?