14 day plan

Are We There Yet?

Day 3 of 14

NIVUK

Titus 3:5-6

5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Saviour,

Reflection:  His Mercy

I don’t worry much about eternal rewards. It is enough for me to know they are there, waiting, and that it is wise to work for them (Matthew 25:20; 1 Corinthians 3:8). The brutal reality is that, in the end, every one of us will have to rely on God’s grace (undeserved love). So, my confidence is not in any good works I’ve done in my lifetime. Rather, my confidence is in the character of God (Titus 3:5). That’s what I lean back on – or “into,” to be more accurate. This truth stops me focusing on myself and fretting about my inadequacies. It fills me with a vision of something else: God’s reality and God’s goodness.

And, I have to say, that is something infinitely more beautiful to dwell on!

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, it is such a relief to no longer strive and do things in my own strength. I entrust myself and my future to your grace alone – and am content.

 

 

Titus 3:1-15

Saved in order to do good

1Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2to slander no-one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle towards everyone.

3At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4But when the kindness and love of God our Saviour appeared, 5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Saviour, 7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. 10Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. 11You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.

Final remarks

12As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, because I have decided to winter there. 13Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way and see that they have everything they need.

14Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.

15Everyone with me sends you greetings.

Greet those who love us in the faith.

Grace be with you all.