Titus 1
Be Still: Lord today, open the eyes of my heart. Speak to me through your Word. Guide my steps and lead me in your everlasting ways. Amen
Read: Titus 1
Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness — in the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time, and which now at his appointed season he has brought to light through the preaching entrusted to me by the command of God our Saviour. (vv1-3)
Encounter: In writing a bio for yourself, I’m told (thank you Google) that you need to include your name, your role, your goals and inspirations, two to three impressive and relevant personal achievements and one quirky fact about yourself. And all of this in just a couple of sentences!
Paul, in writing to Titus, and everyone else who would read this letter, takes a couple of sentences to describe his mission and mandate. The first thing you notice is that the focus of his ‘bio’ is not in any way himself, but – Jesus. Everything about Paul was the worship and honour of Jesus Christ.
Paul, a servant of Christ. Paul’s identity and purpose was to serve and honour Christ. In all he said and did, he lived not for his own glory, but for the glory of God. The call on his life was to be an apostle, to further the faith of God’s chosen people. Paul recognised the large calling on his life to lead and pioneer, but the focus of his work was not building ‘his brand’ or ‘empire’ but on pointing everyone to the centrality of Christ. God’s promise of eternal life, good news for everyone, drove Paul on in his life. It defined everything about him.
Apply: If I’m really honest with myself, I can care too much about how I’m perceived – I crave human significance and praise. In reading these verses I’m reminded that the greatest way to live is to fulfil the words of John the Baptist, 'He must increase, I must decrease.' Paul cared little for his own reputation and prestige. He was a man on fire for Jesus. In an age of brands, influencers, and celebrity, how can I actively and intentionally draw people to Jesus, rather than myself? How am I choosing to be a servant of God in the way I daily live?
Devote: Lord Jesus, forgive me for when I crave to make much of myself; to present myself as the hero. May my words, actions and choices point people to you King Jesus.