Grace!

Grace!

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Titus 2:11‭-‬12 KJV

The Inspiration:

What is grace? God's grace is usually defined as undeserved favor. It cannot be earned; it is something that is freely given. It is also a part of God's character. It is no wonder then that Titus pens down the words of today's verse. Grace is from God; no man can extend grace the way only God can. In the first place, what does man have that He can give me? What can anyone give me if God does not first give grace to enable the man give it? It is only from the abundance of grace received that a man can ever hope to be a blessing to the world he has been placed in. Now, this grace is quite peculiar because of what it seeks to achieve and where it seeks to lead us. At the top of God's priorities is the salvation of all mankind. There is nothing more important to God than the safety of my soul. It was the reason why a glorious God would allow His Son to die an inglorious death. I believe this is the loudest expression of grace a man can hope for. 

The Contention:

This grace has been freely given to all men. The reason why this fills me with both a good fear and a great hope is because I didn't have to pay for it. Long before I was born, the price for my eternal redemption was already paid; I couldn't add anything to what was already done. I also note that in Christ, all that I need for life and Godliness have been freely given. He owns all things, and He has freely given all things, but the greatest gift has to be my eternal security. Possessions, position, power and privilege are all temporary, and are only relevant for this earthly phase, but salvation is the key to eternal life. Why would I seek to enjoy all that this life has to offer, and then have no heaven to go to at the end of my life on earth? God has done all that is required to secure this life, and He waits for my response and reaction to Him. What would it be?  There is no fence to sit on on this matter. One way or another, I have to set down the marker on whose side I am on: God's or the devil's. There is no middle course.

The Conclusion:

It is this grace that reminds me of God's daily expectations from me. The extract above lays it all out. Grace 'teaches me that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, I must live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world. Grace won't leave me to fend for myself, but through God's Word, provide daily guidance. It won't leave me to the schemes and devices of the devil, but it will provide ways of escape so I can avoid sin. It will keep me focused on what is really important and eternal, even whilst I enjoy all that life offers. That is the balance grace is able to birth and sustain in me. The devil is quite enterprising and has been in the business of distracting and confusing since he was expelled from heaven. He will try and remind me of my past, or even present struggles, but all I can do is focus on the bright and secure future Jesus already secured for me by His grace. God has  done all He can; how do you plead? God's time of favour is here.