Titus 3:7-8

Passage

… in order that after being declared righteous by that grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.  This word is trustworthy.  And regarding these things I desire that you should state them confidently in order that the ones who have believed by God should fix their attention upon engaging in good works.  These things are good and beneficial to mankind.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

Why did Jesus come to die in God’s grace?  Why have we been given the Holy Spirit?  God’s mercy has been poured out upon us so that we might become heirs to the kingdom.  It is that simple.  God loves us so much that He desires that we should spend eternity with Him.  He made it possible.  He did all the work.  He wants that end.

What lengths has God gone to save you?  How has God revealed this in your life?

Second Thought:

Paul then pauses and reminds Titus that this saying is trustworthy.  Sometimes it can be easy to doubt God’s promise because we cannot feel or touch God.  Because we cannot see God directly, doubt can creep into our mind.  Because of this, Paul reminds Titus to remain faithful and to not be afraid to put his trust in the promise of God.

Have you ever had a moment of doubt?  What brings those moments upon you?  What helps you push through them?

Third Thought:

Paul then reminds Titus that he should not only believe these things but declare them confidently.  The people of Crete need a strong and confident leader so that they can become strong and confident followers.  The stronger Titus is, the more the people underneath him will fix their attention upon God and respond to God in faith.  As Paul ends these verses, he is reminding Titus of the calling to be a good and strong mentor in the faith.  We should all aspire to such a point.

Who have been your great examples in the faith?  How does their example help you fix your attention upon your response to God?  Who looks upon you with that same gaze?  Who can you influence in this life so that they can look to God firmly?

Passage for Tomorrow: Titus 3:9-11