The Importance of “Good Works” - All The LORD is near Daily Devotionals for 2024

Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.
Titus 3:1-2

The Importance of "Good Works"
After Paul's many instructions in the first two chapters of Titus, he continues with more in chapter 3. Here he reminds the Christians in the assemblies in Crete to be subject to rulers and to obey those in authority. In , we find this same exhortation: "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." This speaks to us too. Paul continues by encouraging them to speak evil of no one, and to be peaceable, gentle, and humble. This is the way our Savior walked through this scene, and He is our example.

Paul reminded Titus and the Cretan believers that we are not saved by living a good life filled with righteous works; we are saved by His mercy and justified by His grace (vv. 5-7). Then, however, we are told to "be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men" (v. 8). These good works are not done to obtain favor with God or favor with others, but they are an outward evidence of our salvation. Our lives should quietly show that being a Christian makes a difference. Is that true of me? Am I making a difference? The apostle continues then with a warning: "Avoid foolish disputes for they are unprofitable and useless (v. 9). If we are spending our time in maintaining good works, we will not have time to waste on arguing about things that do not matter.

Paul ends this letter to Titus by once more emphasizing the need to maintain good works and to meet urgent needs (v. 14). May it be the desire of our hearts to live in a way that is pleasing to our Savior and to make Him known to those around us. "For the love of Christ compels us" (2 Cor. 5:14).

Jacob Redekop