Beyond the Gospels: Titus

Today's Reading: Titus 2:7-15
(Click on the link to read today's scripture.)

Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive. ---Titus 2:9-10 

Sometimes we tend to skip over verses like this. We don't experience slavery any more so it doesn't really pertain to us, but maybe it does. No, we are not slaves to anyone, but we do come under the authority of many. This scripture doesn't give allowances for what slaves think or feel about the task at hand. It doesn't matter if you think you were treated unfairly... or what you deserve. God places authority in our lives, and we are called to be subject to them, to try to please them and not talk back. This doesn't mean we are supposed to endure abuse or do something unethical. It simply means that as followers of Jesus when we come under authority with a humble heart and right attitude, it makes the message of Christ attractive.

Jesus taught "love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And love your neighbor as yourself." Do you consider those in authority over you your neighbor? Consider praying specifically for them today.

Lord, today I pray for those whose authority I am under:

____________, ______________, ______________...

Bless them today. Help each one to remember they are 

ultimately responsible to You for the authority You have given them.

Bless me with love for each individual and organization

under whose authority You have placed me.

Bless me with the faith to serve in love and make

the message of Christ attractive to others.