“Rather - be Holy”

via TJC

“Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.” ‭‭Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

You might be tempted to skip Titus as it’s only three chapters and much of it a repeat of what Paul wrote to Timothy, (as he wrote both of them about the same time). 

Paul sent Titus to the people of Crete, who historians describe as liars, brutes and lazy gluttons. That’s certainly a challenging group to lead and pastor. And we are called to go and make disciples among the same today, not just your “bud” list. 

Paul gives Titus a checklist for selecting leaders; be a faithful  husband to their wife (female), raising well behaved children. He also details a list of “nots” that include, “not” arrogant, quick tempered, violent, dishonest, heavy drinkers. 

And then the capstone - to love what is good and be Holy.  With a key must - be hospitable! We are to be friendly and welcoming to strangers and guests. 

I’m sure it was as easy then, as now, to be friendly to our bud list; but what about liars, brutes and lazy gluttons? And invite them somewhere as a guest?

Daily Battle Order:

You know what is coming as you read this and maybe you are already tuning out?  There are people in your area of influence you may not like, maybe never gotten to know, you may judge them as liars, lazy, or beneath your circle.  What do you imagine those people think of you ? What does being friendly to that stranger look like ? What is something you’re curious about and you genuinely ask and listen? Today