Sense and Nonsense

I read through Titus in the last days of this month, and something struck me.

Chapter 2 begins with instructions to old men and old women, young women and young men (that just about covers all of us...). 

Only one characteristic is commanded for all groups:

Be sensible. (presuming that old women must be sensible in order to teach sensibility to young women)

Why, out of all worthy qualities, would Paul highlight this one for particular mention these multiple times (2: 2, 5, 6)?

Seen in the context of Titus, with Paul's emphasis on sound doctrine and living in light of the truth, I suspect that there is a link between a sensible life and a commendation of the all-wise God.

He talks about the unbelieving who "profess to know God, but by their deeds, they deny Him" (1:16).  In a similar way, one who claims to follow a God of order and insight but lives in a foolish, impractical, obsessive, or undisciplined way, is not honoring what is true of God.

Such a down-to-earth quality doesn't seem particularly spiritual, but considering my inclination (maybe everyone's inclination) to be unduly drawn to some interest or pursuit (though the object may vary), it is a helpful caution.

The stakes are high: through our lives we either dishonor the word of God or adorn the doctrine of God our Savior (2:5, 10).