When Works Contradict Profession

Daily Devotional – Sunday, June 29, 2025
They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him…
Titus 1:16 (NKJV)

In country X, more than 80% of the population professes Christianity. However, the nation is ranked among the most corrupt in the world. This mismatch between profession and practice is abhorrent but not new, even in the spiritual realm.

Their Works Deny God

Young Pastor Titus faced a similar situation in the church at Crete. Some avowed Christians were behaving contrary to the faith. The Apostle Paul did not mince words when describing them. He stated, “They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.”

In another epistle, Paul described such individuals as “having a form of godliness but denying its power.” (2 Timothy 3:5). Christianity is a character-transforming faith. You cannot encounter Christ genuinely and remain unchanged. The power of the indwelling Holy Spirit empowers believers to adopt new attitudes, thought patterns, speech habits, and behaviors.

When Works Contradict Profession

Unfortunately, when works contradict profession, some weak souls may lose track and veer off the faith. Moreover, unbelievers who may have felt some affinity to Christianity may shun it. The Apostle Paul reminds such stumbling blocks that “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” (Romans 2:24).

Do your works match your faith? Can those who know you attest that you are a true Christian? Are there souls you might have discouraged or blocked from following Jesus? Which areas of your life do you need to surrender to Christ today for you to become a bridge and not a wall?

Prayer
Almighty God, once again I surrender my life to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit that my works may match my profession and that I may lead souls to You.