The Devoted Life

"Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives."

Titus 3:14

When we devote ourselves to something we give that thing our full effort and attention.  The definition of devote is to give all or a large part of one's time and resources to a person, activity, or cause.  In this sense, Paul is urging Titus to send the message to his brothers in ministry to devote all or a large part of their time and resources into meeting the urgent needs of others.  As we come into the holiday season, we tend to think more about giving than the rest of the year.  This goes for Christians and non-believers, and of course you have noticed this.  This is a good thing.  It is a tremendous act of self-giving and self-sacrifice to put others before yourself and we tend to see more examples of this around this time of year.  But, here's the question... Do we devote ourselves to doing what is good?  Do we devote ourselves to putting others' needs before our own?  Are we living lives that are productive, in the sense that we are spending all or most of our time devoted to this sort of living?  It is clear that what Paul is saying is to live more Christ-like.  What better way is their to follow in the footsteps of the Savior than to do what is good, provide urgent needs, and live a life full of productivity?  The last part about productivity can seem a bit out of place in a sentence about doing good and providing for others.  However, I would argue that Paul knows that when you are living for God and others, that you are living the most productive, most fulfilling live imaginable.  Think about the best time or the best experience you have ever had in life.  Chances are you are thinking about the apex of a joyful moment of giving.  Chances are you are picturing something amazing you were able to for a loved one or a friend.  Chances are you could be imaging a time when you helped a person that was sick or destitute.  Either way, their is a strong probability that whatever you pictured involves doing good and providing something for others.  Now imagine if you were devoted to this.  Imagine if every Christian you know was devoted to this.  How much good and joy would be spread in your community?  In your household?  In the world?  Today, know that a productive and joyful life comes from doing good with others' needs in mind.  Consider devoting yourself to doing this.  I'm not urging you to quit your job and become a missionary, what I'm saying is consider how you devote the time you do have outside of your reasonable responsibilities.  How do you devote that time now?  Is it productive?  Pray and ask the Lord to guide you to a fruitful and productive life, devoted to Him and others.  Love you all!  Praying for you and yours!  Have a blessed day, it's your choice!