Be Zealous for Good Deeds

Note from today’s Bible reading: Titus 1-2

When Paul wrote to Titus, he reminded him of “the grace of God [that] has appeared, bringing salvation to all men” (Titus 2:11). This salvation was needed because we were lost in our sins. This is also why it came by grace, because salvation was something we did not deserve.

However, receiving God’s unmerited favor is not a license for us to continue in sin or to do whatever we please. Besides bringing salvation, His grace has also revealed instructions about ungodly and worldly things we are to avoid, as well as how to “live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age” (Titus 2:12).

By the grace of God, we have been redeemed from our sins and we now belong to God (Titus 2:14). Yet as “a people for His own possession,” we must now be “zealous for good deeds” (Titus 2:14).

This means we are not to grudgingly or half-heartedly do the will of God. Instead, we are to be eager to serve the Lord, diligent in our efforts, and careful to be sure we are following His will and not our own. This is not a “works-based salvation” that contradicts the New Testament teaching on grace; rather, it is the natural response of faith.

So be zealous for good deeds. When Jesus offered His life to save us from our sins, He redeemed us to be His special people. Let us live like we belong to Him by dedicating our lives to doing His will.