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Titus and Philemon

These two books are immensely short. Only a page each... so read 'em now with the BIBLE READER widget to the right of this post or at http://www.biblegateway.com/.

GIVE IN A LITTLE.

WARNING: the following blog may be a huge shocker to those who think highly of themselves. Because being a Christians sometimes requires us to let others have the spotlight every once in a while...

I loved in Philemon how Paul was willing to take the blame for Philemon. It was pretty caring, and loving, and Christ-like of Him. And although we want to make others know that WE'RE the best, or the prettiest, or the smartest... sometimes we have to glorify others.

We aren't perfect, and we don't have to try and make others jealous. In fact, the Bible teaches us to try NOT to be hated by others, even if it requires us to give up a little of our power.

These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.

Titus 2:15

And also in Titus, it teaches us that we are NOT loved because of how "righteous" we are, but simply because of God's mercy.

So why do we put so much pressure on ourselves to be better? To make other people wish they could walk in our shoes? God loves us all the same, and we're supposed to give in a little so that we aren't hated for being in authority anyway.

...He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy...

Titus 3:5

So next time you mess up, ease up! Don't be hard on yourself. Maybe this is the chance for someone else to shine :)

Peace out.

Comments

Granny said…
It is nice to know that God loves us for just being us and by His mercy. Happy Birthday Carly. God loves you for sure, and He loved us so much, we got you! What a gift.
December 14, 2010 at 4:38 PM
Carly said…
Thank you Granny! I think that everyone is a gift from Him, but I guess you lucked out with me! Haha :) It was a great birthday, thanks for making it special!
December 15, 2010 at 6:52 PM
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