“Just Say No” was an advertising campaign associated with the “War on Drugs“, prevalent during the 1980s and early 1990’s. It was intended to discourage children from engaging in illegal recreational drug use by offering various ways of saying No. The slogan was created and championed by First Lady Nancy Reagan during her husband’s presidency.
But this concept isn’t anything new. As the apostle Paul wrote his letter of Titus to the Christians in Crete he warned them of the deplorable moral situation that was eating at the heart of the city. The dishonesty, gluttony, and laziness of its inhabitants created a challenge to spreading the Good News. Paul gave Titus and all of us some instructions about faith and conduct that would help the fledgling Christians defend their faith against the false prophets and tempters.
For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you. Titus 2:11-14
As we journey through life it is important to remember that right conduct must be founded on right doctrine. While the grace of God abounds we are to accept and provide the unmerited favor to ourselves and others, we must continue to focus on our ethics, integrity, and under-lying character that testifies to the Christ within us.
In 3 John 11, we find some words to help guide us. “Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.” We are to be imitators of Christ. He is the standard by which we are to measure our actions, thoughts, and attitudes.
Within the craziness of this world and the focus upon the uncertainty of the future, we can find God’s solace a consistent standard that will guide us along the way. Faith my friends, it is about faith!
Personal Application:
What are some of the things in your life that need some spiritual attention?
Are you fully appropriating the truths that transform a life? Think about this verse:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Ps. 119:105
Jim Grassi, D. Min.