In Titus 1:5-16, Paul instructs Titus on choosing leaders in a challenging environment—a society like Crete, where corruption and deceit were commonplace. Paul’s instructions to Titus serve as an essential guide to Christian leadership, focusing on qualities that reveal deep, unshakeable character rather than surface-level appeal..

Character Isn’t Just Public – It’s Private

Paul tells Titus to find leaders who are “above reproach,” meaning they live with integrity in all areas, not just in public. True character is found in the unseen moments, not just when there’s an audience. Paul understood that culture will most often celebrate deception, but he knew the strength of the church depended on leaders who maintained godly principles in private and public.

How strong is your personal integrity? Take time to strengthen your character privately by developing daily habits that align with your faith. Start with prayer and scripture reading. By anchoring your faith in private moments, you build a foundation that others will see as genuine.

Character Shows Under Pressure

True character reveals itself under pressure. Paul instructed Titus to choose leaders who were patient, self-controlled, and “lovers of good.” A godly leader isn’t swayed by emotions or circumstances but stays steady and true. This trait remains essential today, where stress often brings out our weaknesses.

How do you respond to stress or disappointment? Do you react with grace and patience, or do you feel pressured to respond harshly? Practicing self-control can help you develop the resilience that Paul describes, making you a person others can trust in any situation. Jesus gave us the gift of The Holy Spirit to help us with this important practice.

Character Aligns Beliefs with Actions

You must do good. Paul challenges Titus to carefully select leaders who live out what they believe. Leaders must “hold firm to the trustworthy word,” letting their actions match their faith. In the city of Crete, where actions often contradicted claimed beliefs, this was a bold standard. Today, it remains a reminder that authentic leadership means living in a way that aligns with what you profess to believe.

Get real about areas in your life where you can better align your actions with your beliefs. It might mean speaking boldly, showing compassion, and choosing integrity over convenience. Small, consistent actions will allow others to see your faith in action, building a legacy of character.