TitusSample

Identity and Assignment

This letter begins as many of Paul's letters do, with an introductory greeting in verse 1.

Titus 1:1
"Paul, a bond-servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ..."

This greeting is crucial and can often be overlooked in our daily reading. Let's pause at the name "Paul." Some might feel unworthy to come before the Lord or to be used by Him, thinking, "The Lord would never choose me." Remember, this man was once called Saul, the same person who, as recorded in the Book of Acts, persecuted and imprisoned Christians. He even approved the stoning of Stephen (Acts 8:1). Saul was intensely against God, seemingly beyond redemption.

However, God radically transformed Saul into Paul. Acts 9 details this dramatic conversion. Initially, when Paul began preaching the Gospel, the disciples were afraid of him and doubted his discipleship. Yet Barnabas vouched for Paul, recounting how Paul had encountered the Lord on the road to Damascus and had boldly proclaimed Jesus' name in Damascus (Acts 9:26-27).

When we give our lives to Christ, we become new creations; the old has passed away (2 Corinthians 5:17). Those who knew us before might not believe the change until others testify to our transformation. Despite Paul's past, he doesn't introduce himself by his former identity. Instead, he emphasizes his current identity and assignment.

Paul identifies as a "bond-servant of God" and acknowledges his assignment as an apostle. Our assignments can vary with life’s circumstances and decisions, but our identity must be rooted in Jesus Christ and who He declares us to be. If we confuse identity with assignment, we risk being tossed by the waves of life (Ephesians 4:14). Understanding our true identity in Christ provides stability, regardless of changing roles and responsibilities.

Reflection Points:

1. Embrace Your New Identity in Christ: Reflect on 2 Corinthians 5:17, which tells us that we are new creations in Christ. How has your life changed since you accepted Jesus? Are there areas where you still struggle to let go of your past identity?
2. Understanding Your Assignment: Consider the specific roles and assignments God has given you in this season of life. How do these assignments align with your identity in Christ? Are you seeking God’s guidance in fulfilling them?
3. Overcoming Unworthiness: Like Paul, you might feel unworthy of God's calling because of your past. How can Paul's transformation story encourage you to see yourself through God's eyes rather than your own or others' judgments?
4. Stability in Christ: Reflect on Ephesians 4:14 and the importance of having a stable identity in Christ. How can you ensure that your sense of self remains grounded in Jesus, especially when life's roles and responsibilities change?

May this devotion encourage you to firmly root your identity in Christ and faithfully embrace the assignments He gives you, knowing that He has the power to transform and use anyone for His glory.