Tellin' it to Titus (and you and me)

To all believers out there,

The thought that you or I could change someone into a good follower is simply untrue . Not to say I have not had that thought more times than I can count. It's just..the thought, as well intentioned as it may be sometimes, is pretty hypocritical and disillusioned. The power a believer has is to share the gospel..not to make it work. Is there someone you care deeply about that is not a Christian? There are several people I love that come to mind. When you pray, remember that the power lies in God and his inspired gospel. You speak it; it works. As a pastor who works in prison ministry encouraged me once, "The gospel is big enough on its own. It doesn't need any fancy techniques or creative presentations. Let it work."

So what do we do in the mean time, you know, to prompt them towards the truth? We quit focusing on the "bad habits" of other people, and love them. When you see someone who just seems diametrically opposed to everything you stand for, love them! Whether that be face to face, in prayer, through a gift, or the way you talk about them to other people. (This is for our benefit, not just theirs. In loving others, we are humbled into oblivion. Right where our good intentions belong. ;)

I am TOTALLY working on this, and really not there. Coming from a perfectionist, results-based past..this is hitting the un-do button on a lot of my habits.  But I am praying God fans this fire into a full on burn where 'I' ceases to be a thought, and 'they' is who I care about. I hope for you too that you grow more deeply in what it means to love others as yourself. This isn't self-deprecation or anything like that, just simply a get over yourself kind of deal.

Really, it seems that new testament scripture focuses heavily on teaching the believer how to live. So, followers of Christ, read Paul's words to Titus below and think about where you're at. Be encouraged by what God is teaching you through his Holy Spirit. 

Titus 3:1
"Remind the people [you & me!!] to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men."

Which part stands out to you? 

P.S. While the above verse is to all believers, in chapter 2, Paul specifically mentions teaching women to be reverent and not to be slanderers. The word 'slanderers' can be translated into 'diablas'... oh yeah, that's really what he said. Ouch.