PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT?

In any sport, when we practice, we get better, and our skills increase.  Even when we put our minds to something outside of sports, we need to study, and practice continuously, so that we become better at it---whether it's taking exams, learning a new job, or even becoming more fit.  Improvement will never happen unless we keep at it, and stay on task.

Currently, the two best teams in the NBA are duking it out in the Finals---the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs.  Many of these current players not only played for 9 months, but also played last summer in the Olympics.  How are they able to sustain such a long season?  By practicing, and exercising, and weight lifting each day---the players also would rejuvenate by eating healthy, and by resting.  Did they do this alone?  Of course not...not only would they get support from their teammates, but each player has a personal trainer.  I'll get to this later on in this blog.

Often, we as Christians diligently avoid outward sins---and rightfully so.  Sin leads to death and estranges us from God.  But how often do we actively seek godly lives and good works?  While we avoid sin with our mouths through gossip, lying or unkind words, we are slow to speak encouragement or to voice gratitude.

Such failures are subtle.  As "good Christians," we understand and abide by clear rules like "don't steal" or "don't commit adultery."  But commands for goodness, generosity, and service seem subjective.  Satisfied that we have shunned the evil deeds, we might even give ourselves more leeway when it comes to doing good works---quietly setting them aside as we fill ourselves with the pride of being saint-like.

In Titus 2:1, Paul commands Titus to "teach what accords with sound doctrine," listing examples like self-controlled speech and temperance to or reverence and kindness.  Before instructing Titus on positive or negative actions, he gives the purpose of the good works: "so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior" (2:10).  Our godliness gives credence and attractiveness to doctrine.  Conversely, a life of sin skews doctrine and maligns God's nature.

Paul's words offer hope.  God's grace trains---a word that brings marathon runners and body builders to mind (Titus 2:12).  While training is slow, hard work that requires practice and perseverance, it makes a weak body strong.  And just as an athlete would not prepare for an event without a trainer, we are not expected to live upright lives on our own.  Paul declares that Jesus Christ is the one who purifies us for these good works.  The grace that gave us new life also trains and sustains us through the hard work of godliness.

                                                     Painting Titled 'You can't do it alone'

Until next time,
Grace and Peace,
Peter