Message from Scripture: 7/13/2020

Today’s message from Scripture comes from Titus 1:5: “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking.”

The term translated lacking has to do with what remains or is unfinished, a deficiency that needs to be corrected. In Crete, the unfinished work refers to establishing correct teaching, dealing with false teachers, and appointing elders in every city that had a congregation of the Lord’s church. In looking at this passage, when it comes to being the kind of people we should be in Christ, we all have deficiencies we need to correct, areas we need to be stronger in, things that need to overcome. What are some ways we can grow and mature in Christ, to have a stronger faith, a greater love, and a secure hope in eternal life?

We need a deeper knowledge of the truth. Peter emphasized we should grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Pet. 3:18). With a more accurate knowledge of the will of God, we will be able to make better choices and be approved of God.

We need a greater love for our brothers and sisters in Christ. Paul wanted the church in Thessalonica to increase and abound in their love for each other (1 Thess. 3:12), As our love increases for each other, so our encouragement in faithful living will increase as well, as we earnestly desire all in Christ to reach the goal of eternal life.

We need a steadfast lifestyle for the Lord. Peter tells us we each have gifts, or talents, from the Lord, and we should serve using those gifts in the strength God supplies (1 Pet. 4:11). God has eternal plans for us, and He desires us to live in the good works we find in Jesus Christ for us.

The more we follow Christ, the more we fill up what lacks in us, and the closer we draw to the image of Christ. What a great thought that is, that as we sing in the hymn, we can be more like Jesus. What a great goal in life. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert