READ: Titus 3:8-15
8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
12 When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.
13 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.
14 And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.
15 All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.
KEY THOUGHT:
It’s been said that the most important aspect of your life is not that you lived and died, but what was done in between. In other words, the dash between your birth and date that appears on your tombstone contains the legacy of your life. What you do in life makes your legacy – that is, the story of your life and what people will remember most about you. Will your legacy be one that centers around work, finances, sports, or other achievements? Or will it be a legacy that centers around Christ and what you did for others in His name?
The apostle Paul concludes his message to Titus by encouraging Titus to have a legacy of good works performed by faith in Jesus Christ. As Christians, we must follow the same model of living for and serving Christ by faith. So often, we put limitations on what we do for Christ based on what we can see. If we have the funds, we will give. If we have the talent and time, we will serve. These limitations seem to make sense, but our good works for Christ are more dependent on faith in Him than on trusting ourselves and our own resources.
Pleasing God requires faith. When you have faith, you can gain victory over the world and all of the circumstances that limit your service for Jesus. Let your legacy be one founded on faith and on the good works that Christ does through you!
CONSIDER:
- What’s the difference between living by faith and trusting in your own understanding?
- Has God burdened you to do something for Him or for others, but you’ve held back? What are the reasons for holding back?
- What would be the legacy of your life at this very moment? How would others remember you?
APPLICATION:
Live by faith and leave a legacy of good works that Christ does through you!
