TITUS
DAY TWELVE
READ If your
Bible has an introduction to the book of Titus, read that.
INTRODUCTION
The
book of Titus is a letter from Paul to Titus, a convert of Paul’s. He had
learned, studied, traveled with, and been extensively trained by Paul. He had a
strong faith, but was still young.
Throughout
this whole letter Paul writes to Titus with fatherly wisdom and also
expectation that Titus will obey as a son might. Paul’s instructions are for
Titus’ personal faith and growth, but also for Titus’ use as a leader. We can
surmise from the tone of this book that Titus may have been struggling with
some strong personalities and strongly held but misplaced beliefs in the
churches he was part of. As a young believer, it would be hard to stand up to
older men and women, especially if they need correcting. So Paul sends this letter
of encouragement and direction.
Paul
has a strong focus in this letter on godly living. It is clear Paul sees no
excuse for sinful habits and lifestyles. He makes it clear that by God’s grace,
holiness and godliness are possible. He sets the standard high – not just for
Titus, but for all the older men and women in the church, and the young men and
women too. According to Paul, godliness in lifestyle is an indicator of the new
life that has been formed in our hearts. As such, we must follow in the path of
godliness as a response to what God has promised and done for us.
As we
read through this book we will be challenged in our actions, our
disciple-making, and in our hope. Our hope in heaven is sure and, if we allow,
it can change how we live today.
JOURNALING
AND PRAYER
1.
Take a few minutes to ask the Lord to speak to you
about some strong personalities you have had to deal with recently. Ask Him to
open your heart and mind to His truth about your attitude toward them and how
your hope for heaven can affect this struggle. Ask Him for wisdom to deal with
this practically. Thank Him for the wisdom He so generously gives when we ask.
2.
Ask God to begin to stir your heart to long for
even deeper and more lasting holiness in your heart and lifestyle. Ask Him to
speak to you about what one or two areas to focus on as we read through this
book. Thank Him for refining you, and pray for strength and grace to grow in
those areas.
3.
Take a moment to pray for the church leaders you
have. Pray for wisdom for them, as well as the ability to train up more leaders
to take the church into the next generation with strength and power by the
grace of God.
