“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.”
Titua 2:7/NIV
Earlier in life I answered the call to Patriotism and honorably served in the United States Navy for a quarter of a century. My initial moments in basic training were humbling ones as I quickly received a “buzz cut” and the hair left on top of my head was reduced to stubble. Tall slender and physically fit Navy Petty Officers barked at me and reminded me routinely that I was not worthy to be wearing the uniform of a Navy sailor. The first morning in basic training, which was hours before sunrise, we were all awoken by the sounds of our leaders beating on trash cans and barking at us to get out of our racks (beds) and hop to our feet. There’s much more to the basic training story but you get the idea our leaders were trying to quickly break us from our “civilian” ways and mold us into “sailors” ready to go to war in moment’s notice!
When reading Titus 2:7, for some reason the memory of the beginning of my naval career popped in my mind. Recollections of navy leaders with much “seriousness” who sought to demonstrate “integrity” were my immediate role models that reflected what I should become. Through my basic training experience, the instructors sought to do “what was good” and were “examples” of what I needed to become. After twelve humbling weeks, I succeeded, and honorably graduated from Navy boot camp and proceeded on with my 25-year career. I too sought to proceed in my career in “serious” fashion seeking to maintain “integrity” while being a “good example.”
Titus 2:7 also makes me think about godly souls I have had around me over the years who have been positive role models for me. They, too, demonstrated much “integrity” and were “good examples” and role models. As a follower of Jesus Christ, I know my mission in life is to be like Him. As I read the Bible and learn about Jesus, I develop an understanding about how He thought and spoke as well as His actions which are qualities I should emulate. As I follow Jesus Christ, and seek to be like Him, I will be a “good example” and live a life with much “integrity.” The Bible tells me I should do away with my “earthly nature” and “put on the new self” which reflects Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:5 & 10).
Self-reflection consideration: Do I live a life of integrity that is a good example for others, one that reflects the presence of Jesus Christ?
Many blessings to you!
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A Faithful Sower Publishing is a limited liability company that is dedicated to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and help guide people into a relationship with God and grow in that relationship. The publisher, editors, and authors achieve that end through prayer and the careful exposition of the Bible to best explain and illustrate Scripture in a meaningful engaging way so others can apply its truths to their everyday life. The mission of the the A Faithful Sower ministry team is to carry out the Great Commission issued to all who choose to follow Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. Jesus commands us to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15).
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