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August 14 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed an purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. Titus 2:11-14. This passage presents one of the clearest statements about the Christian life. It starts with the grace of God, that makes all things possible. Salvation is for all—there is no secret, preferred list. There is instruction for the believer to lead a sensible, righteous life. And there is hope—something the world can never offer or fulfill. Our hope is in the appearing of Christ Jesus—the redeemer of all people, if they would only believe. We are made into a new creation, a purified people that are in the possession of Jesus. He designs us for good deeds, the deeds flowing from His very nature. The unbelieving world has completely different ideas about the Christian life. They would imagine a cruel God who would demand strict punishment and removal of any free will from our daily existence. The world would tempt us into false hopes—like financial or social promises, better standards of living, and above all comfort and pleasure. But instead, we have the author of all grace—His unmerited favor, given with not expectation of repayment—for all who would believe in and accept Jesus. We can never comprehend fully this awesome love. Father, we thank You that we are in Your possession. The wonders of Jesus are being shown to us each day, bit by bit. Help me comprehend and give praise for this. I present myself as available for Your good works. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
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