"Urge bondslaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith so that they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect." (Titus 1:9-10)
In the above verse, the phrase "showing all good faith" is a contrast with what is expected from those claiming Christ as their own. They may hold different positions in life, but this attitude must be reflected in the lives of each one claiming Christ as their Lord and Savior. This "showing all good faith" explains why we are not to be "argumentative" or "not pilfering". Why is all this so important? "That they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect." The word "adorn" means "to arrange, to put in order." We get our English word 'cosmetic' from this Greek word.
When we "show all good faith", we must realize that "not argumentative, not pilfering" is the opposite of it. When we are "not argumentative", we are being agreeable rather than pressing our desires. When one is "not pilfering" they are being honest and not taking things that do not belong to you, even if you think you deserve it!
"Showing all good faith" is where we understand and trust the Lord is in control. When one is practicing not being argumentative even when you think you are wronged, that is trusting in God that He will work things all out for good. It is faith at work! The one who is being honest in all things believes God will take care of their needs so their is no need to pilfer or steal. Pilfering is a lack of trust.
In all this, one begins to beautify the teachings of God! To adorn the doctrine or teaching of God is not to do things just because it is right, but because it is the GOD thing to do! People say you don't steal because it is the right thing to do, which is true but God would never consider that thought. It is the GOD thing to do. It glorifies God through our Savior Jesus Christ.
That leaves us with one final question. How do you adorn the teaching of God our Savior? Are you showing all good faith?
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