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December 19th

The bible reading today is in the three chapters of Titus.

“To Titus, my true child in a common faith:"

No one is absolutely sure about the nature of Titus’ relationship with Paul. Most believe that he was converted to Christ during one of the missionary journeys of Paul. And that he served alongside of Paul on parts of his first missionary journey.

However, Paul calls Titus his “true child” in the faith. Perhaps Paul got to lead Titus to Christ in a one on one witnessing experience. I wouldn't doubt it.

It is obvious that Paul held Titus in great respect. Paul called him a friend and a fellow worker in the Gospel ministry. ‭‭Titus‬ ‭1:4‬

Paul chose his friend, a converted Gentile, as the disciple servant leader to help the churches that were planted in Crete.

“This is why I left you in Crete so that you might "put what remained into order”, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—”

‭‭Titus‬ ‭1:5

What an important assignment Paul entrusted to Titus.

The churches were birthed from the missionary journeys of Paul. He had to have a great measure of joy and a sense of gratefulness to God for using him and his teams to be a part of something so awesome.

The Island was known for their one hundred towns. And they all had a church that needed encouragement, guidance, and Godly leadership. So Paul sent Titus...to oversee that process...how special!

And Paul gave Titus some instructions that would apply to him and all leaders in the churches...for instance

“as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.”

‭‭Titus‬ ‭2:1‬

“Titus, teach the truth of the word...every truth and every word. And keep doing it. You will lead best from your teaching of the word.”

Paul also wrote Titus to constantly remind the Pastors to say “yes” to whatever God brings their way...even before they know what it is. “Remind them...to be ready for “every” good work,”

‭‭Titus‬ ‭3:1‬

One Sunday after church, in Spring Texas, a woman who just started visiting our church came to ask me to pray for her family, a husband, and two sons...one in high school and another in college. Several months later her husband walked the aisle after my sermon to talk to me about Christ’s salvation. That day through a contrite spirit and slow tears, that man expressed a heart-felt desire to be saved...to believe Jesus and follow him with his whole heart. Some would call that a good work.

Later that week I made a follow-up visit on the new convert. Some would say that was a good work. The wife met me at the door to let me know that her husband got hung up at work and was going to be late. She asked if we could reschedule. I said sure and headed for my car.

Then I heard some laughter and loud teasing coming from the garage...the door was open and I saw 4-5 young fellows playing pool. They saw me. They invited me to play.

I could have excused myself. But I didn't. I wound up accepting their invitation and enjoying an hour and a half of pool with the guys. Some would say, even me, that the games of pool were me being ready to be polite.

But months afterward, three of those young men, including the two sons, bowed their hearts to Jesus and began to follow Him as their savior God. Some would say that those guys getting saved under my preaching was a good work.

But...knowing what I do now...the good work began in a garage playing pool.

Lord, keep making me/us ready for every good work...my answer is YES...whatever!

Have a great day