In the same way, encourage the young men to be self-controlled in everything. Make yourself an example of good works with integrity and dignity in your teaching. Your message is to be sound beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be ashamed, having nothing bad to say about us. Titus 2:6-8 HCSB
We live in a society that does not seem to value self-control. The attitude seems to be one self-indulgence on every level. It has never been easier to lose control of self and purchase on credit, supersize a fast food meal, or satisfy lust than in our world today. The end result of such lack of self-discipline is a life absent of integrity and dignity.
After addressing the women in the previous verses, Paul then turned his attention to the men. In the first verse Paul addressed all of the men and instructed them to be self-controlled in everything they did. In the last two verses he challenged Titus to lead the way by setting a good example for the other men. In Paul’s time men were viewed as leaders of the family. Even today, the man is usually considered to be the leader of his family, therefore it is important for men to set a good example for their families. They should live a life of integrity and dignity.
Challenge: Are you setting a good example for others? Would others say that you are self-controlled? Is integrity one of your values? Ask God to help you to become the man you should be and to set a good example for your family.