READING: 1 Kings 13-14, 2 Chronicles 12, Psalm 47, Titus 2
I’m 59, but I don’t feel that old. In fact, I don’t really feel much different than I did when I was 20. I still work out most days, and I have the privilege of hanging out with young people all the time. I’m sure my work with young students and missionaries helps to keep me feeling young. Nevertheless, I’m increasingly an “older man.”
I think I take seriously my responsibility as an older man to invest in young men, but today’s reading in Titus 2 reminds me again about this obligation. God teaches us, equips us, protects us, and transforms us over the years so we might turn around and provoke next generations to good works. Thus, our age and life experience prepare us to teach others.
What I’m struck by today, though, is Paul’s mandate that older men be “sound in faith, love, and endurance” (Titus 2:2) – particularly, the call to endurance. The sense is that we must patiently and steadfastly follow God through the years, letting nothing derail us from a walk that pleases the Lord. Even hardships and persecution should not turn us from following Him. Years of faithful living then become a witness to God’s protecting power and an example for others to emulate. We press on . . . and press on some more . . . and just keep pressing on for God’s glory.
PRAYER: “Lord, I want to be a model for the next generations. Use me to connect with them and equip them.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 1 Kings 15, 2 Chronicles 13-14, Titus 3