As I was reading my devotional this morning, I came across this passage from Titus Chapter 2. The emphasis was on verses seven and eight, but I have listed the entire passage for context. The heading in the NKJV has "Qualities of a Sound Church". Before I get into why this passage is so important, I want you to read it.
1 But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2 that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. 6 Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, 7 in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, 8 sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.
Lately I have been noticing that the behaviors and actions of people are not aligned with the doctrine they profess to follow. Their mouth may say one thing, but their hands are doing something else. While their heart may have good intentions, it is not evident in their speech and actions. My translation of this passage, is that we are to speak what is right and what is true according to the doctrine we follow. Our actions are to be examples for younger generations to follow.
We cannot be slanderers, drunks, hateful, or inpatient. God is not the only one watching us. Our youth are also watching and learning from us. Older women are to teach younger women to love their husbands, care for their children, not get caught up in mess or have God's name blasphemed in the streets. We are to teach young men and women to have respect for themselves and others, integrity, and not do anything that would cause shame to them, their families, or God.
People are always hollering about their reputations, but they fail to realize that the reputation of God is at stake. How can you be an example for others and a representative of God, if you are constantly involved in mischief and being corrupted at the drop of a hat? I have learned that my reputation as an ambassador for Christ is far more important than any recognition I receive in life. My consistency and incorruptibility as a Christian sets the tone everywhere I go. I cannot allow anyone or anything to deter me from serving God and teaching my daughter to do the same. I live as if everyone is watching me, but only focus on the One who created me.
I hope that in your spiritual journey, you will take heed to the task of being an example for the younger generation. I pray your example is positive, respectable, and sound.
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