How can we "devote ourselves to good works" in daily life? Anchor Verse “Titus 3:8 — ‘This saying is trustworthy. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have believed God will be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for the people.’” Understanding “Devote Themselves” • “Devote” implies deliberate, continual attention—good works become a planned priority, not an occasional spur-of-the-moment act • The command follows belief: first salvation by grace (Titus 3:4-7), then a life that proves faith genuine (cf. Ephesians 2:8-10) Cultivating the Heart for Good Works • Stay anchored in Scripture daily (Psalm 1:2-3); the Word fuels discernment for what is “excellent and profitable” • Abide in Christ through prayer and obedience (John 15:4-5); fruitfulness flows from the Vine, not self-effort • Keep short accounts with sin (1 John 1:9); purity clears the channel for service Practical Ways to Walk in Good Works Each Day Home • Speak words that build up (Ephesians 4:29) • Share chores and burdens without complaint (Philippians 2:14-15) • Teach and model the faith to children (Deuteronomy 6:6-7) Work or School • Serve wholeheartedly “as for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23-24) • Show integrity—arrive on time, keep promises, refuse gossip (Proverbs 10:9) • Offer quiet acts of kindness: a listening ear, mentoring a newcomer Community • Practice hospitality (Romans 12:13) • Support local ministries—food banks, crisis-pregnancy centers, prison outreach (Hebrews 13:16) • Engage civic responsibilities with honesty and respect (1 Peter 2:12-17) Church • Use spiritual gifts for the common good (1 Peter 4:10) • Encourage discouraged believers (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Give generously—finances, time, talents (2 Corinthians 9:7-8) Hidden Opportunities • Pray for strangers you pass (1 Timothy 2:1) • Send a Scripture-filled text to someone Holy Spirit brings to mind • Choose gratitude, turning everyday tasks into worship (Colossians 3:17) Guarding the Motives • Remember good works do not save; they display salvation (James 2:17-18) • Seek God’s glory, not applause (Matthew 5:16) • Serve out of love, not legalism (Galatians 5:13) Staying Powered by Grace • Rehearse the gospel often—He “saved us, not by works” (Titus 3:5) • Ask for the Spirit’s strength (Galatians 5:22-25) • Rest when needed; Jesus invites weary servants to His yoke (Matthew 11:28-30) Encouragement to Persevere • “Let us not grow weary in well-doing” (Galatians 6:9) • Even a cup of cold water given in Christ’s name will be remembered (Matthew 10:42) • The Master’s “Well done” is worth every effort (Matthew 25:21) Devoting ourselves to good works is a daily, grace-powered response to the salvation we have received—excellent and profitable for everyone we touch. |
    |