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. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things…
Titus 3:4-7
Paul’s letter to Titus is full of practical advice about Christian living. Paul devotes most of his letter to the behaviour and conduct of the Christian believer and the importance of living a godly and ‘productive’ life. But that’s not the heart of the letter. Paul’s key focus is on God’s grace and how that grace shapes us.
The truth of these verses is like the petrol that keeps the car going. Without petrol, the car will stop driving. Resting in these truths are what will keep us going in faithful service to our Lord. Our God is merciful. He didn’t have to save us, and his rescue plan didn’t include our efforts or good works. This is a truth we can rest in. The amazing thing is that when we rest in it, we want to live good and productive lives as his Spirit works within us to renew and transform us.
Gracious loving heavenly Father, when I’m tempted to think that my salvation depends upon what I do, help me to remember that I am saved because of your kindness and love. Fill me with your Spirit and remind me that the Lord Jesus has done it all. I am saved. I am your heir and have the hope of eternal life. Amen.
How do you usually respond to someone who is wrestling with spiritual concerns? We’re likely to listen, pray, offer care, counsel, and comfort from God’s word. But (very) occasionally, this is entirely the wrong approach. That’s because the need for ongoing reassurance may indicate an underlying mental health condition known as scrupulosity – a sub-type of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
“I don’t know how to relate. What will I say? I don’t understand them!” Have you thought this about a different generation? This article from Amy Yeung suggests a framework that could help us care well, no matter what generation someone is from.
Pastoral care takes place in many different contexts and capacities. You might offer care to those in your family, your friendship network and your church community. A toolbox of resources can equip you in these various contexts and roles.
Caring is not so much about fixing a need or solving a problem – it’s about showing up and being there as a willing servant of Christ. It lets another know they are seen and valued.
