Scripture
“But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior…” (Titus 3:4-6)
Observation
Even though I still have fleshly tendencies, I have been washed and renewed—not because of any righteousness, but because of what Jesus did on the Cross in my place. And because I am forgiven, it is now my responsibility and heart to forgive others.
It’s as if Paul is saying to me as he was speaking to Titus saying, “Yes, Titus, you must speak truth. You must tell your congregation both young and old how to live. However, you must do so with great meekness, remembering that the Lord washed you, renewed you, and saved you not by any works of righteousness you did, but according to Jesus’ “abundant mercy.”
Application
I often find myself using self-deprecation, as a humorous way of showing how I’ve been saved. I use it in my messages because of how humbly sincere and grateful I truly feel - only by the amazing grace of God, I was saved. And because of that I must forgive others as the Lord has forgiven me. This one is a big deal for me. I should be dead, but I am alive. I was once lost, but now I’m found - thank you Lord.
Prayer
Father, thank you for Your amazing grace and mercy in my life. I don’t look back as a victim, but only in victory and how You rescued me from destruction. Lord You saved me from total disaster - and for that, I am eternally grateful. Thank you Lord for my salvation and love for people and You Lord. Amen.
