Monday, January 5, 2009

Our Relationship With Others

I want to start this first week of the new year off with a passage that is from Titus chapter 3:2-8
It speaks of our relationship to all people.
"Slander no one, be peaceable and considerate, and show true humility toward all men.
At one time, we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He asved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone".

Vs 2 tells us to be peaceable - quarreling only arouses the hostility of non-Christians. I'm sure you've seen such examples on the news. Arguing and throwing around harsh words at those whose beliefs are different doesn't do any good.
Vs 5 reminds us that it's nothing we do that earns us salvation - just being good doesn't get one into Heaven. I'm sure hell is full of a lot of good people. Our only way in is through our trust in Christ Jesus - the only righteous one.

With this new year, I really want to make a difference in other's lives. I want to study the scriptures more, which will guide me in the path God has laid out for me. I want to let him lead me to be more like the beginning verses of this passage speak about - to speak kindly to everyone; to be peaceable and considerate, and most of all - to be humble.

May this new week of the new year bring blessings and the peace of God into your life...

Janelle

1 comment:

Farmhouse Blessings said...

Such a worthy goal, Janelle. You are making a difference already!

Smiles,
Lea