Titus chapter 3: verses 1-7 (NIV)
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. 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 Saviour appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Saviour, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
Romans Chapter 2: Verse 4 (NIV)
Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?
Paul counselled Titus to teach the church about the importance of living like Jesus would. He reminded Titus that in spite of our selfish and improper behaviour, God through Christ had treated us with kindness and mercy. Thus, we should treat everyone in the way that God has treated us. Paul makes it very clear that everything we have received from God is only by His grace and not because of anything that we ourselves have done.
This puts us all on a level playing field and it reminds us that we have no cause to treat people differently whether they treat us well or not. When we realise how kind and gracious God has been to us, we want to emulate that, and therefore become more like Jesus.
When we have been treated with unexpected kindness, we feel valued and loved. That’s how God sees us – valued and loved. And that’s why we should make the effort to treat others in the same way. It may well be the means to point them to the God who loves them too!
Dear Lord,
I am so grateful for Your love and kindness that was shown to me, even although I didn’t deserve it. Help me them to extend that same grace and love to others as a good Ambassador of Christ. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.