They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good. (Titus 1:16)
Expanded Passage: Titus 1:16
There was a janitor from Vermont who lived a quiet and simple life. He wore the same coat all the time, drove a second-hand car, and lived below his means. It was a huge shock to everyone in the community when he passed away and his will directed millions of dollars to the local library and hospital. Many people were blessed by this gesture of true financial discipline and generosity.
The Bible says in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” In today’s verse, Paul reminds Titus to look at people’s love for God by how they serve God, not just at their profession of faith. Our actions should show that our devotion is fixed on God. Christians living a life contrary to God’s Word are not able to bear fruit that reaches our world for Christ.
Many unbelievers are discouraged and turn away from Christ when they see Christians living the same way as them. Our calling requires that we live lives that strive for holiness and that we bear good fruit. Each day, we have the chance to show others our good works. Imagine the daily lives the janitor could have touched if he had revealed that his life was not just “simple”—he was storing up his treasure for eternity.
Live like the lost are watching—because they are.
Stacy Haynes is a mental health therapist, author, podcast host, and children’s ministry pastor in the Wesleyan Church.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
