The pastor's greatest joy is to hear that "his people" walk in truth!
     "I have no greater joy than this,
      to hear of my children walking in truth." (3 John vs. 4)

Paul challenged Titus with these words:
     "and let our people also learn to engage in good deeds, to meet pressing needs, that they may not be unfruitful."(1)

It is not enough to claim that we know the truth! Those who really know the truth-walk in it! As we study the book of Titus together, we are praying that our church family will catch a fresh vision. We are praying that "our people" will become passionate representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ! (see "Putting It Into Practice" below)

The Spirit of God gives us an appetite for truth. After we are saved, our hearts hunger for spiritual things and God's life within us motivates us to grow and mature. When we respond to truth, we want to know more!

However, if we don't line up with truth…we become dull of hearing. We are challenged to train our hearts to discern good and evil.(2) Responding to truth is critical. Truth always leads to godliness!

Is there anything in your life that is "out of place?" Anything hindering you from walking in the truth? It is important that you face the truth and respond to God. Your spiritual growth depends on it! Your spiritual impact on others also depends on it!

Father,
You have given me a hunger to know the truth! I long to know Your Word; I long to grow in my faith. Show me anything in my life that would hinder my growth and help me to become an effective representative of Your saving LIFE. People around me need to know the truth about You. Let them see how Jesus is working in me!
In Jesus Name, Amen

PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE

1. Read through these 46 verses in one sitting…then, read it again using a different translation.
2. As you read, notice the relationship between what we believe (truth) and how we live (godliness).
3. Consider writing out your personal mission statement. Include:
    a. How your faith focuses life
    b. How your faith impacts your relationships
    c. How you seek to "represent" Christ in your daily activities

(1) Titus 3:4
(2) Hebrews 5: 13-14