These final verses of the book summarize Paul’s letter to Titus.
“When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful. All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.” (v12-15)
Some of the key points from this letter are pointed out in these verses:
– never give up, do our utmost to remain obedient
– equip and support one another in our faith journeys
– devote ourselves to good works which include helping those in need
– spend our time and energy wisely, investing them in meaningful ways
– greet and depart from each other with reminders of our common faith
– bless each other with encouragements and reminders of God’s grace and mercy
If we follow all of Paul’s parting guidance to Titus on a daily basis, imagine what a difference this will make in our lives. Even if we picked two or three of these points per day, we would notice a difference in our own attitudes, and the attitudes of those around us. It’s hard to harbor hate when we are serving each other out of love. It’s hard to be proud when we’re constantly reminded of God’s grace and mercy. It’s hard to become apathetic when we’re constantly seeking to equip, train and help others.
I encourage us to have a list like this posted somewhere we will see it – if you’re like me (and the average North American) you have a smart phone that you check frequently – why not have a background, a widget, or a reminder of things like these on your phone where you’ll see it multiple times per day? A sticky note on the bathroom mirror works too for a more traditional approach. Let’s try to consistently remind ourselves of Christlike attributes and behaviors in the hope that they will become healthy habits in our lives. The devil is the king of distractions and will gladly keep us from doing these things, which is why reminders are often helpful.
Father God, our Magnificent and Sovereign Lord, all honor praise and glory be unto Your name. We thank You for the indwelling Holy Spirit who guides us every day, reminding us of who You are, and our role as Your servants. May we learn to consistently love and serve You and our neighbors, behaving like Jesus did. We thank You for the blessings and gifts You have given each of us, and ask Your Spirit to help us use them wisely for Your glory, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training