So often when Titus 2 is referred to it is focused on what to train the younger women in, today I am hit with what the older woman is to be.
First, she is to be reverent: God honoring, quick to call out to Him and quick to pray.
Secondly, the older woman is not to be a slanderer: not tearing other’s down, not breaking a confidence.
Thirdly, she is not to be addicted to much wine. I find this interesting that this is named specifically. Wouldn’t this fit under the living reverent umbrella? Since it is so specific it makes me think it must be a bigger issue than I would guess. So if you are addicted to much wine and your children or others have lost respect for you—take responsibility for your actions, apologize and turn away from this addiction. If you are the child of a parent addicted to much wine, forgive them, their sin is not an excuse for you. Do not let their weakness have any power over you.
Although “addicted to much wine” is the specific here, I think there could be a number of “addicted to much”…..fill in the blanks. Ask the Lord to reveal to you any addiction that is keeping you from having the testimony the Lord wants from you.
Lastly, older women are to teach what is good. Age isn’t the key factor, content is. Older women can be passionate about feminism or being pro-choice but what they are promoting is NOT good. Only God is good and only teaching that lines up with His Truth is good.
Older women have a high standard to live up to.
Father, we are all growing older and we all desire to be honoring You with our lives. Let us live to be examples of Titus 2: 3. Strengthen us to live reverent, without slander or addiction to much wine and to teach only what is good. Thank you Lord for Your faithfulness, Amen.