26 August 2026
Christian maturity is not simply about avoiding obvious sins. Titus 1:7 says that an overseer must be “blameless, not arrogant, not hot-tempered, not an excessive drinker, not a bully, not greedy for money.” Mark points out that these are the things an elder must not be. He cannot be controlled by pride, anger, substances, violence, or money. His life must demonstrate that Christ rules his desires rather than those desires ruling him.
But biblical character involves more than avoiding what is wrong. Paul continues, “but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, righteous, holy, self-controlled.” Mark explains, “What do we want our elders to look like?” The answer is not simply men who have stopped doing bad things. They are men who actively pursue what is good. They welcome others. They love what is good. They live righteously. They pursue holiness. They exercise self-control. Godly character is not merely the absence of sinful behaviour. It is the presence of Christlike character.
This matters in everyday life. It is possible to avoid a particular sin while still failing to pursue godliness. A man may not lose his temper, but he may still fail to show patience. He may avoid selfishness, but still refuse to serve. He may stay away from obvious wrongdoing, but remain spiritually passive. Mark describes self-control as “a Spirit-governed mastery over their appetites, emotions, and decisions.” That kind of maturity requires active dependence upon God’s grace. Today, choose one negative characteristic to put to death and one positive characteristic to pursue. Bring both before the Lord in prayer.
Your children also need to see this process. They need to see that Christian maturity does not mean pretending you never struggle. If you lose your temper, repent. If you speak harshly, apologise. Let your children see you return to Christ for grace. Mark reminds us, “No man is perfect. But the pattern of his life should demonstrate these qualities through gospel grace, not self-effort.” Your repentance can teach your children something important. Jesus is changing you, and you need His grace every day.
Titus gives us a picture of a man whose life stands out from the culture around him. Mark notes that the standard is “counterculture.” That does not mean Christians withdraw from the world. It means our lives should look different because Christ has changed us. Ask yourself today: Which characteristic in Titus 1:7–8 most challenges you right now? What would growth in that area look like today?
Lord, expose the sinful patterns I need to put to death, and grow the Christlike character I need to pursue. Help me depend on Your grace rather than my own strength. Amen.