Titus 3:4-8 (New Living Translation)
But—“When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done,
but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and
new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus
Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us
confidence that we will inherit eternal life.” This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on
these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing
good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.
Paul reminds Titus, a leader in the early church about the Good News of Jesus. It truly is Good News!
Paul also reminds Titus that the Good News will help people to trust more completely in God. The more clearly we understand God's message and plan the more we can trust Him. The Good News will also help us devote our lives to doing good. We don't do good deeds to earn our salvation, but because we are have been rescued by such and amazing and loving God, we are inspired to act like Him!
Will my doing good make a difference? Yes – by the
power of the Holy Spirit working in and through you! You have to keep believing that God is using your good deeds to impact the world. "Not only does
each of your actions have a direct impact on the world, but also every choice
you make sends a message to those around you… We create momentum for each other…
Don’t let anyone convince you that you have no power – together we have the power
to change the world. All significant
changes in the world start slowly, at a single time and place, with a single
action. One man, one woman, one child
stands up and commits to creating a better world. Their courage inspires others, who begin to stand
up themselves. You can be that person." (Better World Handbook, Ellis Jones, Ross Haenfler, Brett Johnson with Brian Klocke)
b.
Lead others by
doing good and inspiring them to do good.
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