Doctorates In Christian Living
January 23, 2006
Doctorates In Christian Living
Titus 2:2-5
Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance. Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips, nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, worker at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonored.
In these passages Paul writes to Titus, of instruction to the older men and women in Christ. I think that not only is this instruction for the seniors in Christ, but for the young as well. First, these are tangible goals that the young may strive for: being “temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance;” not gossips, not drunks, teachers of good, encouraging young wives and mothers, clear headedness, diligent workers, kind, and heeding the wisdom of their spouse. Second, these are traits that young believers can use as a measuring stick for finding mentors.
Notice that the verses do not mention social status, education, occupation, or nationality. Even so, it may seem like a tough “boot to fill”, but there are godly senior saints out there who have, need to be, or will be part of your life.
At various stages of my life I recall several senior saints who possessed these wise traits. My dear Granny was very strict, but gave sound advice, “Remember to write.” Mrs. Ida Sooter, the director of the preschool I attended was always so kind. My former master’s track coach and church elder, Mr. Bob Hunt, now 85, would say that you have to first want to do God’s will to get God’s will done. Mr. Bill Cliff diligently greeted Sunday morning worshippers with a hearty “Good Morning” and a listening ear. Dr. John Carver, now 88, is an incredible Bible teacher who can explain complex topics in simple layman’s terms. Mrs. Ruth Brant, one of my piano teachers and widow of noted American composer Leroy Brant, took us students each month to a convalescent home to play for patients.
Is there someone in your life who has attained a “doctorate in Christian living?” Has that person in a large or small way been an example to you as described in Titus 2:2-5? If so, then today let’s pray for, call, or email them. Let them know that they play an important role in your spiritual growth. If not, then keep a prayerful eye out to discover a senior saint who radiates the characteristics mentioned in our verses.
Dear God, thank you for the instruction of your scriptures. And thank you for the wonderful senior saints in my life who are “doctorates in Christian living.” Help me to be more like you through their influence and to discover someone new who mentors to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Doctorates In Christian Living
Titus 2:2-5
Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance. Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips, nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, worker at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonored.
In these passages Paul writes to Titus, of instruction to the older men and women in Christ. I think that not only is this instruction for the seniors in Christ, but for the young as well. First, these are tangible goals that the young may strive for: being “temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance;” not gossips, not drunks, teachers of good, encouraging young wives and mothers, clear headedness, diligent workers, kind, and heeding the wisdom of their spouse. Second, these are traits that young believers can use as a measuring stick for finding mentors.
Notice that the verses do not mention social status, education, occupation, or nationality. Even so, it may seem like a tough “boot to fill”, but there are godly senior saints out there who have, need to be, or will be part of your life.
At various stages of my life I recall several senior saints who possessed these wise traits. My dear Granny was very strict, but gave sound advice, “Remember to write.” Mrs. Ida Sooter, the director of the preschool I attended was always so kind. My former master’s track coach and church elder, Mr. Bob Hunt, now 85, would say that you have to first want to do God’s will to get God’s will done. Mr. Bill Cliff diligently greeted Sunday morning worshippers with a hearty “Good Morning” and a listening ear. Dr. John Carver, now 88, is an incredible Bible teacher who can explain complex topics in simple layman’s terms. Mrs. Ruth Brant, one of my piano teachers and widow of noted American composer Leroy Brant, took us students each month to a convalescent home to play for patients.
Is there someone in your life who has attained a “doctorate in Christian living?” Has that person in a large or small way been an example to you as described in Titus 2:2-5? If so, then today let’s pray for, call, or email them. Let them know that they play an important role in your spiritual growth. If not, then keep a prayerful eye out to discover a senior saint who radiates the characteristics mentioned in our verses.
Dear God, thank you for the instruction of your scriptures. And thank you for the wonderful senior saints in my life who are “doctorates in Christian living.” Help me to be more like you through their influence and to discover someone new who mentors to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
posted by Karen Vaughn | 7:13 AM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home