Our scripture this morning is Titus 3:4-8.
When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.
Paul shares a truth that we must remember – “He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy” (v. 4). There is nothing we can give or do to merit salvation, God forgives our sin because of His righteousness and love for us. We are unable to save ourselves through any human effort, only through Christ’s sacrifice for us can we be made right with God.
When we let go of the false impulse to try to make things right ourselves, we begin to work through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Then we are truly on the path Jesus showed us. We must submit to God’s will and turn away from the temporary things that lead us astray.
We hear that now we have “confidence that we will inherit eternal life” (v. 7). What a wonderful gift! God wants us all to be saved but we must make that choice as individuals. By giving up our human failings and trusting God for everything, we can be reconnected to Him forever.
Loving Lord, thank You for the blessing of Your son who came to teach us the way back to You. May we share this gift with all the world. Amen.