Reliability is a soft skill that requires firm conviction and determination.

Suppose we are to search for the root word of reliability that originated from a Scottish term. In that case, the definition expresses consistently good quality or performance of a person or a thing. As for a person, they can be trusted for they are dependable, well-founded, genuine, authentic, trustworthy, valid, committed, fail-safe, infallible, and constant. Cambridge Dictionary also defined reliability as "The quality of being able to be trusted or believed because of working or behaving well." The wisest king who ever lived asked a question above his discernment of who is reliable as he sought them. Myriads of people from all lands surrounded him; he must have found them loyal as they paid tributes or homage to him. But, still, he's looking for a person who is constantly dependable and trustworthy.

In our society, many men and women are available and willing to work, but only a few are reliable. Reliable people are those who consistently complete tasks on time with the same high quality of work. They show up on time and appointments. They prioritize the importance of tasks and ensure they are done on time, as they respect deadlines. They choose their commitments and know how to say no to other things they believe that they cannot deliver. They take charge in moments of crisis and daunting challenges. Furthermore, they accept delegation needing less supervision. This is possible because of their core values aimed at excellence and completion.

Reliable people are greatly valued and easily noticed. Reliability makes planning stress-free because deliverables are supplied on time. Excellent output and increased productivity are observed. Decisions to take risks are more accessible because of the profitable work these people execute and the accurate and evidence-based information they bring. But at times, reliable people are "hated". When someone is good at something, incompetence, and inefficiencies will be exposed, even if not on purpose, and comparisons might arise. Thus, it is advisable to understand, first and foremost, the dynamics at the workplace to work harmoniously with others without necessarily compromising one's values and reliability. Be discreet, and never brag about how good you are.
Who indeed are the reliable people during these volatile times? Reliable people are those who live by example and are considered worthy models. They become a foundation of what the organization should be. They are a special breed of people who are not greedy but uphold a high standard of creed. These reliable men and women know the secret to becoming one.

First and foremost, anchor their confidence in the Lord, who is faithful and covenant-keeping God. They never doubt the undying and uncompromising Word of the Almighty God. This is the certainty that one can rest and trust. Reliability and faithfulness are God's very nature that withstood the test of time and challenged every trial. As we live and work, know for sure that "the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed." "Therefore know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments."

The nation of the Philippines is an archipelagic country composed of 7,641 islands based on the new count of National Mapping and Resource Information Authority.  It consists of 112 ethnolinguistic groups who comprise nearly 15% of the total population of the country according to a case study made by David E. De Vera, Executive Director of Philippine Association of Intercultural Development Inc. These facts show our diversity in many aspects such as, among others, cultures, traditions, beliefs, practices, customs, and dialects. Despite of all these, we are one nation under God. We work together as one and we care for one another.  We still embody the Bayanihan spirit by helping one another most especially in times of calamity or disaster, without expecting anything in return. Besides, there are intermarriages among different tribes and ethnic groups. 

The above is what we are known for. It is who we really are. It is our nature. It is our foundational trait. However, our distinct and admirable characteristic is marred by the social ill of division and factionalism due to political partisanship and other contributory factors. Sometimes, either in local or national scenario, those in the present administration does not support those who were in opposition. As a result, there are regional maldevelopment or underdevelopment and unequal distribution of wealth. There is lack of development in the countryside while there is too much industrialization in cities. Thus, there is too much congestion in highly urbanized areas due to increasing population and heavy traffic condition.
Let us therefore bridge this gap and uphold the value of interdependence. We are like one body of different parts that are dependent to one another. As the Scriptures have said, “…the eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you’; nor again the head to the feet, ‘I have no need of you.’” The same is true with us, an Ilocano cannot say to the Ilonggo, “I have no need of you” or a Cebuano cannot say to an Ibanag, “I have no need of you”. We all need one another, and we must work together for the good of our country.

In an office or agency, the same principle applies. Let us note that even before we express our dependency on one another, we are already made interdependent by our work. Most of our duties are interdependent. A task needs to be accomplished first before another task can be done. In so doing, we are forced to coordinate and collaborate. We should therefore duly consider our colleagues whose tasks are dependent on our accomplishments. We do our part diligently so that they may not also be unduly restrained, and the public will not also be denied services that should be extended promptly and adequately.
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In like manner in a bigger picture particularly sharing of resources in the country. There should be a sharing of resources among different geographical areas to realize a wider range of development. Selfishness is not our trait. Massive distribution of wealth, skills, knowledge, and expertise should be our constant practice. Without interdependence, there will be a delay in the delivery of social services. There will always be somebody who will be put to disadvantaged. Far be it from us. “Kapit bisig tayo; tayo ay Filipino”. 

​What makes it difficult to fully acknowledge one’s limitations or mistakes, be willing to accept the help offered, and be generous in giving genuine appreciation to others? How challenging it can be sometimes to welcome feedback, criticisms, or suggestions for improvement as well as bright ideas from others. What worries us the most to consider others betters than ourselves? These are some of the areas that we can start reflecting on if we are to commit to growing in humility.
 
While the concept of humility is sometimes perceived as a sign of weakness when assumed that it is about having a poor opinion of oneself, low self-esteem, or a display of vulnerability, being humble is a strength and a powerful trait of a leader or any person of influence. Studies in recent years reveal that leading with integrity inspires collaboration, better job performance, and employee engagement. Humility makes a person willing to see oneself accurately (strengths and weaknesses), be receptive to feedback, and learn from others (Owens, et al., 2013).
 
Embracing humility keeps us grounded regardless of the accolades we have or have not received or the successes we have achieved or have yet to achieve for humility is “characterized by a low focus on the self, an accurate (not over or underestimated) sense of one’s accomplishments and worth, and an acknowledgment of one’s limitations, imperfections, mistakes, gaps in knowledge, and so on” (APA Dictionary of Psychology). It guards us from falling into the pit of pride and arrogance, as well as from feeling inferior.
 
Albert Einstein once said, “The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know.” This simple yet profound statement reflects the humility of a person known for his brilliance. This reminds us of a proverb that states, “With humility comes wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2). From a position of teachability that is void of self-glory, we can produce new and innovative ideas, come up with wise decisions, and sincerely address issues and concerns that derail progress and development around us.
 
Growing in humility leads to never-ending learning in all facets of life, including public service. Let us build one another in a way that acknowledging one’s limitations or mistakes will no longer be difficult, constructive feedback will be welcomed, the sharing of ideas and genuine appreciation will be encouraged, and esteeming others better than ourselves will be a norm. By doing so, we grow in divine wisdom. 

In the demanding world of government service, diligence and focus are crucial for achieving success and making a positive impact. Diligence entails persistent effort and attention to detail, while focus requires directing our energies toward specific goals despite distractions or obstacles. When these virtues are embraced, they can transform our work into a fulfilling and purposeful endeavor.
 
Diligence is not merely about working hard; it's about working smartly and consistently towards a set objective. It involves being thorough, attentive, and proactive in one's responsibilities. Similarly, focus means channeling one's mental and physical energies towards achieving specific targets, refusing to be deterred by nonessential concerns. For government personnel, diligence and focus are needed for efficient service delivery, effective policy implementation, and fostering public trust. By embodying these traits, civil servants can elevate the quality of their work and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Scripture offers timeless wisdom on the importance of diligence. Proverbs 12:24 states, "Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." This passage underscores the principle that diligent efforts lead to progress or success, whereas neglectfulness can result in undesirable consequences. A prominent thinker, Saint Augustine remarked, "Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you." This quote underscores the balance between relying on God and applying diligent effort in our endeavors.
To cultivate diligence with focus, consider the following practical steps:

• Set clear goals: Define specific objectives aligning with your office's mission and the public good.
  
• Manage time effectively: Prioritize tasks and allocate time wisely to ensure essential duties receive sufficient attention.
  
• Stay committed: Persevere through challenges and setbacks.

• Seek continuous improvement: Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning and skill development.

 
Lastly, diligence with focus is a transformative mindset for government personnel seeking to excel in their roles. By integrating Scriptural principles and the above guidelines into our work ethic, we can contribute positively to our communities and honor our calling to serve others. Let us remember the words of Saint Paul in his letter to the Colossians, "whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." 

Who doesn’t want a promotion? Most of us desire to excel and to be commended for our hard work. It is an affirmation of our sense of worth and purpose. We work hard, extending working hours and pushing ourselves to do better to be noticed and commended, but what if we find ourselves in a situation where we receive the opposite of our expectations? Will we continually dedicate ourselves to work? 

In the history of Israel, Joseph, a faithful son and brother to his siblings, despite his pure heart, was despised and unappreciated by his brothers. He was mistreated and sold to a foreign land. He became a slave to high-ranking officials and was later promoted because he was one of the most trusted workers. Yet history repeats itself; he was falsely accused and imprisoned. Because of his dedication and pure heart, he was commended by the warden, which made him the most trusted person in the prison. He was faithful to every task given to him regardless of his position. He remained steadfast and honest in his work. He has valued every opportunity to serve unblemished. After years of genuine service, he was rewarded with freedom, commendation, fame, and favor; he was promoted to one of the high-ranking officials of Egypt, a foreign land.

His life is an example of valuing work regardless of what position we are in. We may find ourselves overwhelmed by many expectations, comparisons, insecurities, and competition. Still, as we remain faithful to what is entrusted, we will soon be noticed at the right time. We only need to be consistent and unwavering. People may not notice and commend our efforts, but a righteous and just God will always see it, and at the right time, we will be exalted as we humble ourselves. 

Let us be true and faithful to whatever is entrusted to us. The Apostle Paul encourages us that whatever we do, work at it with all our hearts, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since we know that we will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord we are serving. 

Remember, while recognition and advancement are welcome aspects of work, true fulfillment comes from finding purpose in the act of serving itself.  Just as Joseph persevered and excelled regardless of his circumstances, we too can find meaning and satisfaction in our work by aligning it with our values, contributing to a greater good, and embracing growth opportunities.  Let us value our work for its inherent worth, and the intrinsic motivation it provides, and serve with dedication and excellence, both for ourselves and for something larger than ourselves. Valuing our work is valuing the purpose the Master has placed on us. Let us serve beyond human commendation!