Titus 2:11, 12

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 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


The grace of God which appears in our hearts after his salvation has been received becomes that which transforms us, and what we once took pleasure in, we find no longer offers that same pleasure. The transformation within us becomes this mysterious sense that the ways of our past no longer bring honour to God, and so we are just done with those old ways. Sometimes we learn what brings God glory by reading it in his Word, but there are times when we inwardly sense it without being taught. Our learning comes by our conscience through the power of the Holy Spirit. The world and all that is offensive to God stings our nostrils with its stench, and we immediately reject all that belongs to this worldly life. When we hear the stories of the person who immediately gave up alcohol or drug abuse, we see clearly the power of God’s transforming power. God came into their heart in the person of Jesus Christ, and immediately they left behind all that was dishonourable to God – life was transformed and made new. When one does not leave the world behind in ways which deny self we wonder at the soul of that person. We wonder if what they proclaim is outward only, for there are those who receive the Gospel, and proclaim it, but never deny sin, or never display a love of godliness. They still give in to worldly passions and worldly lusts. Sin is a choice. In Christ we have control over our mind and our heart to just say, “NO!” to that which leads us to discredit the God we serve. When we follow the Spirit of God, we are led in new ways which honour him rather than following our own private desires. The Spirit brings self-control.

Pastor Julia

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