Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.
—Titus 3:1-11

~~~~~

“Ordained from God, By the Spirit, Through the Savior”
By Jennifer Kane

Be ready,
to obey, to serve, to speak gently.
Once, we were foolish—
enslaved to desires, deceived by darkness,
spending our days in malice and envy,
hating and being hated.

But then,
a kindness beyond comprehension appeared,
not earned, not deserved—
a mercy that washed us clean,
a renewal poured out lavishly
by the Spirit, through the Savior.

We are heirs now,
children of grace,
standing on the hope of eternal life.
So I devote myself to what is good,
to what strengthens and restores.
I turn from endless arguments,
from division and strife,
walking instead in the peace of His love.

This is my song:
Once lost, but now renewed.
Once bound, but now free,
ordained from God,
by the Spirit,
through the Savior, eternally.

~~~~~

Scriptures: Titus 3:1-11

In Titus 3:1-11, Paul reminds believers of their calling to live in obedience, kindness, and humility, reflecting God’s grace in their actions. This passage not only calls us to good works but also to remember where we came from and the incredible mercy of God that saves and transforms us.

Live obedient and kind lives. Paul instructs Titus to remind believers to respect authorities, be ready for good works, avoid slander, and live peaceably with humility. This is not about passive compliance but active engagement in doing good for others.

How does your life reflect humility and kindness in your interactions with others? Are you ready for every good work God places before you? Today, find a way to bless someone with an act of kindness. Speak words that uplift and bring peace.

Remember what you used to be without God. Paul humbly acknowledges, “We ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived.” Reflecting on our past reminds us of the transformative power of God’s grace and keeps us grounded in humility.

Do you remember where God found you and how He changed you? How can that memory inspire gratitude, humility, and patience with others? Write down three ways God has transformed your life, and share one with someone who needs encouragement.

Remember the Great Salvation of God. Paul emphasizes that salvation is not by works but by God’s mercy. Through the Holy Spirit, we are renewed and justified by grace, becoming heirs of eternal life.

Are you relying on your own works or resting in God’s mercy for salvation? Then focus on the words “He saved us.” Let gratitude for God’s grace motivate you to maintain good works out of love and not obligation.

Remember to Stay on Course. Paul warns Titus to avoid fruitless arguments and reject divisive individuals who harm the unity of the church. Instead, believers should focus on profitable and edifying conversations.

Are there any unproductive debates or distractions pulling you away from God’s mission? How can you focus more on what matters—His Word and good works?

Avoid conversations or situations that lead to strife. Instead, invest in relationships and discussions that build faith and unity.

~~~~~

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your incredible mercy that saved me, not because of anything I’ve done, but because of Your love and kindness. You’ve washed me clean, renewed me through Your Spirit, and called me into a life of grace. Help me reflect that grace in my daily actions, choosing kindness, humility, and peace toward everyone I meet.

Teach me to be ready for every good work You place before me, and guard my heart from distractions that divide or draw me away from Your purpose. When I’m tempted to engage in fruitless arguments, remind me of the hope and peace I have in You.

Lord, may my life be a song of praise to You: once lost, but now renewed; once bound, but now free. Thank You for making me an heir of eternal life. Strengthen me to live in a way that honors You, reflects Your mercy, and glorifies Your name. I love You and commit this day to Your service.

In the name of Jesus Christ, my Savior,
Amen.

November 26 2024