My Power or God’s? // Titus 2:11-12

I want us to look at today’s verse in its broader context: “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, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good” (Titus 2:11-14, NIV).

This brings to mind a recent conversation I had with someone who does not profess faith in Jesus. The gentleman doesn’t object to Jesus…quite the contrary…but he was unable to see Jesus as anyone other than a good man and a wise teacher. He asked me about a practical way I have experienced my faith as anything other than a good philosophy. I told him that I believe the Lord Jesus helps me in my decision making, and particularly when I’m feeling tempted. For starters, I know when I am tempted to do wrong and the power that comes when I pray to God and ask for help to not succumb. I shared it isn’t just willpower, because I know the difference when I fail trying to resist under my own power. He seemed stunned at my answer and didn’t muster a response. It seemed so simple at the time, but it all flooded back when I read today’s passage about how God’s grace helps me recognize there is a massive difference between relying on my own willpower and God’s.

How have you experienced God’s grace as a power that helps you live for Jesus when there are so many nefarious forces in the world trying to get you to live for yourself? God wants you to live your best as we wait for Jesus’ return. And I think it’s imperative that I mention there is grace and forgiveness when we invariably fail. It all comes down to trust God and depending on Him. Will you today and everyday? I pray so!