Surrounding Yourself with the Right People
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear God, guide me today as I learn about the importance of community and surrounding myself with the right people. Open my hearts to Your wisdom and help me to build relationships that honor You. Amen.
"The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you."
Titus 1:5 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Paul writes to Titus, instructing him to appoint elders in Crete to help establish and lead the church. This highlights the importance of having the right people around us to support and guide us.
In the message, Todd emphasized the importance of focusing on the "who" before the "do." Paul’s instruction to Titus to appoint elders underscores the necessity of having godly, wise people around us. The elders were to be men of character, capable of leading and guiding the church through its challenges.
Reflect on your own life. Who are the people you surround yourself with? Are they individuals who encourage you in your faith and help you grow closer to God? Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." The people we choose to associate with can either build us up or lead us astray.
Consider the qualities Paul lists for elders in Titus 1:6-9. These include being blameless, not overbearing, not quick-tempered, and not given to drunkenness. These qualities are not just for church leaders but are characteristics we should seek in our friends and mentors.
Surrounding ourselves with people who exhibit Christ-like character can help us navigate life's challenges and stay focused on our purpose.
Is there someone in your life who exemplifies Christ-like character? Consider reaching out to them, whether for advice, mentorship, or simply to spend time together. If you don't have such a person, pray for God to bring someone into your life who can fulfill this role.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will confess to God and turn away from one character flaw in my life.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for the people You have placed in my life. Help me to build relationships with those who will encourage and support me in my walk with You. Give me the wisdom to seek out godly counsel and to be a source of encouragement to others. Amen.