10 November 2020
Show yourself in all respects a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, gravity, and sound speech that cannot be censured; then any opponent will be put to shame, having nothing evil to say of us..
From Titus 2: 1-8, 11-14, NRSV
Few of us feel comfortable speaking very openly about our faith as people like Paul and Titus did. Apart from our natural diffidence, we may be worried about the hostilty we will encounter or the criticisms we might face when some our actions or words fail to live up to the ideal. Those who are determined to discredit what we say we believe will always be quick to notice our imperfections but, ultimately, our attempts to live with integrity – to weigh our words and to speak only what builds up – and to be as much of a model of good works as we can – all these will add up to a life that, whilst not perfect, witnesses to Christ and the transformation faith in him offers to imperfect but willing followers.
- Who can you think of who shows the qualities Paul asks Titus to live by?
- How might you build those qualities into your own life?
Pray today for the grace to let your actions and words be powerful signs of your integrity and faith in Christ.
