In a letter to another young pastor who he left in Crete, Paul writes to Titus about many of the same things that he wrote to Timothy about. But, he really talks about living right in this letter, much more than he did to Timothy. He gives great advice for older men and women, as well as younger men. For us old guys:

But as for you, promote the kind of living that reflects right teaching. Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have strong faith and be filled with love and patience. Titus 2:1-2 (NLT)

Being fallible, this is difficult. We all really want to live the best that we can and if we slip up, it is easy to come down hard on ourselves. I know I do. But, we can help each other to do better, especially with younger men in our lives:

In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely in all they do. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good deeds of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Titus 2:6 (NLT)

I can’t tell you how it helps me when I serve and am able to give back to young people. It really makes me want to be worthy of their respect. It makes me better and I love to do it.

Paul always seems to put it in perspective and remind us that God loves us despite our human behavior. We are going to mess up, God knows that and He still loves us:

Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled by others and became slaves to many wicked desires and evil pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy. We hated others, and they hated us.

But then God our Savior showed us his kindness and love. He saved us, not because of the good things we did, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins and gave us a new life through the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:3-5 (NLT)

That is pretty awesome that He does that for us and how can we repay this type of kindness and love?

These things I have told you are all true. I want you to insist on them so that everyone who trusts in God will be careful to do good deeds all the time. These things are good and beneficial for everyone. Titus 3:8 (NLT)

Hey, we are going to mess up, but by doing good deeds and helping others, I believe, it will help us to become better and help those around us. As always, good stuff. Read on…

Next up: Philemon 

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