Ten days…

I’ve been leading a study on the book of Titus with three other women.  We get together and share about the book.  Last night, we discussed the 2^nd chapter of Titus.

As I’m embarking on the age of 40, I am realizing more and more that I’m not one of the younger women in the church body anymore.  Though I understand I still have so much more to learn on my journey, I’ve come to a recognition that I am now at the age of being a godly example to younger women.  It’s my turn to minster to them in the way in which I was once ministered and mentored.  For me, age 40 not only carries life experience but also several years of serving God through many ups and downs.

The 2^nd chapter of Titus gives wonderful instruction concerning the subject of mentoring and being a godly example.  It has also served to bring to light an important view of turning 40 for me that actually stirs newfound excitement.  I wasn’t the least bit offended at the words, “The older women likewise…” in verse 3.  (Smile)

I began writing my book more than two years ago when I felt the Lord strongly speak to me that I needed to allow my test to become my testimony.  I’ve heard many people use those words throughout the years, and God brought them back to my heart and mind.  After writing the book, I started finding myself going in other directions where ministry was concerned.  I was confused with why things seemed to be changing so dramatically for me.  The winds of change were blowing.  However, it wasn’t necessarily a gentle breeze, sometimes it felt like hurricane strength winds.  The wind blew me in a completely different direction.  Next thing I knew God spoke to my heart that I would be speaking and interacting with women not only about my book but about life experience from a scriptural standpoint.  Less than a few weeks later, I had a woman approach me about becoming her mentor.  Not long after that a small Bible study grew, and then God led me to start this blog.  The book of Titus is keeping me in check and teaching me more and more every time I read it.

It’s a short book, and I highly recommend you read it as well.  In chapter two, God spoke three points to my heart that I believe are vital to be able to grasp the role of mentor.

1. Know God’s word.
2. Know and understand your role.
3. Know the power of your example.

Before I wrap it up for today, I want to share with you a scripture from Titus 2:10.

Not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.  (N.K.J.V.)

To adorn is to make something beautiful.  Goal number 10 on my “40’s goals’ list” is to work consistently to adorn the doctrine of God our Savior by the example of a worshipful life.  I want to have a transparent heart tender for the things of God.  I never want to be satisfied merely saying that I live for Christ; I want people to actually see that I live for Him.  I want to be different, and I not only want but desperately need to live the attributes spoken to the older women in Titus 2:3-5.

The book of Titus has spoken a peace to my vain humanity where aging is concerned.  Each day, God is helping me to discover comfort in age 40.