Titus 1:1-4

“This letter is from Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. I have been sent to proclaim faith to those God has chosen and to teach them to know the truth that shows them how to live godly lives. This truth gives them confidence that they have eternal life, which God—who does not lie—promised them before the world began. And now at just the right time he has revealed this message, which we announce to everyone. It is by the command of God our Savior that I have been entrusted with this work for him. I am writing to Titus, my true son in the faith that we share. May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior give you grace and peace.”

Paul’s last point reminds us of who we rely on because it is here that he points us to:

3.         The Power to Carry it all out – Vs 2-3 – The Savior

While our purpose flows out of our position it is sustained by the Saviors power. We are to look to the Lord not only for our purpose but also for our power. Paul points to a Christians power by reminding us to: 

1. Enjoy Eternity Now – 2a

Stop limiting your life to earthly things and start live in light of eternity. If you are a believer things will only get better so fix your hope on heaven not on your hurts. You have a choice you can be bitter or you can be a blessing. You can be a critical Christian or a cheerful one. Unfortunately, too many Christians I know are more of an advertisement for anger than they are for the Almighty.

2. Count on God’s Character – 2b

The basis for our belief is grounded in a God who does not lie. This truth about God is in direct contrast to the Cretan culture where Titus 1:12 says: “Cretans are always liars…” God’s character is what cultivates our confidence. We live in the power of His promise, that what He says He will do. Psalm 106:12 says, “Then they believed his promises and sang his praise.” What promise do you need to proclaim in praise? Is there something you’re struggling with, is doubt causing you distress? Don’t just claim the promises of God cling to them and proclaim them through praise.

3. Trust God’s Timing – 3a

This brings us to the power of patience. All of God’s promises will come true but it’s on His timetable, not yours. Are you living according to Christ’s calendar or clinging to yours? In his book “Walking with God” Andrew Murray provides a helpful perspective on being patient about God’s timing: “Waiting in the sunshine of his love is what will ripen the soul for His blessing. Waiting under the cloud of trial that breaks in showers of blessing, is as needful.