Good And Beneficial

ByJean Stephens

Scripture:

4 But then God our Savior showed us his kindness and love. 5 He saved us, not because of the good things we did, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins and gave us a new life through the Holy Spirit. 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us because of what Jesus Christ our Savior did. 7 He declared us not guilty because of his great kindness. And now we know that we will inherit eternal life. 8 These things I have told you are all true. I want you to insist on them so that everyone who trusts in God will be careful to do good deeds all the time. These things are good and beneficial for everyone. 9 Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These kinds of things are useless and a waste of time. 10 If anyone is causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with that person. 11 For people like that have turned away from the truth. They are sinning, and they condemn themselves. (Titus 3:4-11 NLT)

Titus was going to be dealing with things in the church that we still deal with today: trying to make rules to follow in order to get merit rather than trusting in the kindness and love that Jesus showed to us. Can it really be that simple? Good deeds, and acts of kindness are good and beneficial, and we should do them, but they do not save us. I find myself just wanting the simplicity of trusting and believing more and more. I don’t want to complicate my life with trying to figure out a lot of religious do’s and don’ts. I want to say, and believe, simply that God is God in my life and I trust Him for what is best for me, and for my family.

Lord, help me to do the good and beneficial things always. I daily want to just trust You with my life, and with my family that I love so much. Thank You that You have shown love and kindness to us over and over. I love You. AMEN

I will thank You, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things You have done. I will be filled with joy because of You and will sing praises to Your name. Psalm 9

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