“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.” Titus 3:8
A couple of weeks ago my
nephew left his pastorate and family for a few days to take care of an out of
town family member needing help. A week
later my niece gave her car to a college-bound student. Their acts of kindness
are evidence of the Holy Spirit within us generating good works created for us
in Christ Jesus.
During a time of grief, the
following words were sent to me in a letter. I stood stronger knowing someone
saw the reflection of Jesus in my life.
"I saw you
stand bravely for years, but
saw no trace
of senseless fears-
I saw you stand calmly
through stress
but caught no glimpse of bitterness-
I saw you stand prayerful in grief, but saw no trace of unbelief."
Though you spoke well of
Jesus Christ,
I
caught your faith watching
your life.
(Karen Stork, 1983)
Twice Paul asked his protégé and faithful companion Titus to remind believers to always be ready to do good works. We understand that we are saved by God’s mercy and grace and not by what we do; still our works evidence our faith. “God saved you by his grace. Salvation is not a reward for good things we do. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus so we can do good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians2:8-10
Twice Paul asked his protégé and faithful companion Titus to remind believers to always be ready to do good works. We understand that we are saved by God’s mercy and grace and not by what we do; still our works evidence our faith. “God saved you by his grace. Salvation is not a reward for good things we do. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus so we can do good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians2:8-10
Let's encourage each other as
believers and disciples of Jesus, to act with compassion for others-consistently
pointing to His parable of the good works of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10:25-37
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