I was reading in Titus today.

Titus is not a book that is often referenced and after reading it today, I don’t know why. I know at some point in my life I must have read the whole book, but it is one of those that seems to get lost in the other 66. Perhaps because it is a small book. I don’t know, but I do know that it is a powerful book of the New Testament.

This book is chalk full of guidance about meeting opposition, instructions about faith and conduct, and warnings about false teachers.

In Titus 2 Paul gives instruction on what must be taught to various groups and when you read these verses and see the moral standards that are applied to both men and women, you understand that these guidelines are not intended to put restrictions on us, but they are so we can have strength of character, and be an example of what is good. It is every Christian’s responsibility to be a guide and train the younger men and women, thus strengthening the church, the individuals, and their families.

Titus 2:11-14  For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,  while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

When we allow God to be the leader in our lives, and seek His instruction, saying NO to ungodliness and worldly passions not only becomes easier, but it becomes our desire. Yes, we will be tempted because that is how satan ensnares us, but our desires will be for the Lord, our hopes and our passions will be for the Lord, and our security is found in Him.