For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "no" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age … — Titus 2:11-12
This is one of my favorite passages.
I am encouraged, first of all, to know that the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. I’m not sure, exactly, how that can be, but it tells me that God has a plan to reach every person who has ever drawn a breath of air. Yes, we get to partner with that – wow – what a privilege! Nobody is left out. No one is denied an opportunity to find the loving arms of Jesus. Again, I cannot tell you how, but when God says it is so, nothing in heaven or on earth can stand in His way.
I am happy that the grace of God teaches us. We need to be taught.
But how do we learn to say "no"? When the temptation loses its appeal.
This is the work of the grace of God in our lives. It isn’t a white-knuckled obedience where all enjoyment has been drained from our lives. But rather, it is a grace that fills our hearts with good things from God, so that the devil’s dessert tray looks like donuts left in the middle of a busy intersection.
Righteousness is a joy when our hearts are open to receive every good and perfect gift that comes down from Above.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
Dwight Clough is the author of four Christian books and is an active member of Lake City Church in Madison. This devotional is also available via email and you may review the archives back to 2002. To contact Dwight or Kim, use their contact form. You may also support their ministry.