If you want to be happy, become a person who people can trust.

Paul used Timothy as an example of someone who was reliable, consistent, and dependable: “You know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel” (Philippians 2:22 NIV). 

Paul had seen Timothy in action, in all kinds of circumstances, and he considered him genuine and trustworthy. Timothy had proved to Paul that he was someone who could be counted on.

Do people know what kind of person you really are? Have you been proved trustworthy like Timothy?

Any time you go to a bank for a loan, they’ll do a credit check. They want to know if you’re worthy of being trusted with credit. Do you pay your bills on time? Do you have a track record of keeping your word? Can you be depended on to pay the money back? Are you creditable?

The thing is, everyone around you is doing a credit check on your life, every moment of your life. They want to know if you are who you say you are. Are you showing your true colors? Can you be trusted?

When you prove that you are a trustworthy person, you’ll be a happier person. People will know you’re reliable, and, as a result, your relationships will be stronger.

How do you develop a reputation of trustworthiness?

First, you live with integrity. Integrity doesn’t mean you’re perfect. It means that what people see is what people get. You are the real deal—because your actions match your words.

Proverbs 25:13 says, “Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing!” (The Message).

Second, you keep your promises. Even if you find out it’s going to cost you more than you thought it was going to cost you, you still keep your word.

Psalm 15:4 says, “They always do what they promise, no matter how much it may cost” (GNT).

Learning to live with integrity and keep your promises will show others that you can be trusted and will in turn make you a much happier person.