“We are careful to be honorable before the Lord, but we also want everyone else to see that we are honorable.”
2 Corinthians 8:21 (NLT)
When Paul praised Titus and the brothers traveling with him, it wasn’t just for their enthusiasm—it was for their character. These men were tasked with carrying a large financial gift from the Corinthians to believers in Jerusalem. Paul knew that money can easily create suspicion, so he chose men who lived honorably before God and before people. Their integrity ensured that nothing would diminish the impact of the offering or steal the glory meant for God.
This teaches us that ministry is not only about what we do, but also how we do it. God is our ultimate audience, but the way we handle resources, relationships, and responsibilities matters in the eyes of others too. Excellence and transparency protect the witness of the gospel. When people see integrity in God’s people, their thanks overflows to Him.
Sometimes appearances matter because they guard the opportunity for God to receive glory. So let’s live in such a way that both heaven and earth can testify that Christ is at work in us.