“Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. 7. Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, 8. And sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” ESV
In Titus 2:1-10, Paul gave advice for different age groups and genders. The advice in our text was for younger men, but when I read it I thought it can be good advice for every Christian. I think that when you read what I have written, you will agree. Our lives should be the epitome of integrity. Among a lot of other things, this means that we should be truthful and honest. Nothing will destroy the witness of a Christian any more than being dishonest and untruthful. Our lives should be lived with dignity. The KJV translates this as “seriousness.” People will know that we are serious about our faith by the way we behave. We should not be long-faced, always negative and judgmental, but we should certainly act with dignity. By this I mean that we will not be crude, have good manners, and show a good spirit that will make our witness winsome. Our speech should be sound. Among other things, this means that we should be careful about what we say to people and what we say about people when they are not present. This means that we should not be gossips. This means that unless we have something constructive to say we should keep our mouths shut.( By the way, we cannot give constructive criticism to people who are not present.) We should just be careful what we say – period. My guess is that it is in these areas that we are criticized the most by the world. This is why I decided to apply this to all of us, not just the younger men. If, however, you are a young man reading this, it is very good advice for you before you get “old and crabby.” lol Bro. Joe
1 Comment
Linda Brooks
10/17/2016 07:21:02 pm
This is DEFINITELY APPLICABLE to ALL of us !!!
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