Grace Empowered Life! (part 1 of 2)

Varying things can motivate changes in our behavior. The fear of punishment (if it's severity is at least appreciated) can keep us from committing certain acts. Simply desiring to please someone can cause us to change habits they do not like. The gaining of personal benefit -- position, praise, even money, etc. -- can compel us to make changes in our life as well. Is the GRACE OF GOD impacting our life in such a manner? If not, we may be taking it for granted.

In Paul's letter to Titus we read. . .
"(11) For THE GRACE OF GOD has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, (12) TRAINING US TO RENOUNCE UNGODLINESS AND WORLDLY PASSIONS, AND TO LIVE SELF-CONTROLLED, UPRIGHT, AND GODLY LIVES in the present age," ( Titus 2:11-12 ESV)

The Greek word translated "training" is "paideuo" which primarily refers to training children ("pais", a child), with the broad idea of education. [source: W. E. Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words] Such training is through chastisement and instruction. Are we allowing the GRACE OF GOD to train our manner of living in such a way? Being educated and trained by the GRACE OF GOD we will learn to abandon ungodly activity and worldly desires. We will also learn the patience of godliness and to live with restraint. This is in contrast to those who do not understand the GRACE OF GOD, but instead view it as freedom for sensual living. (note Jude 4)

Let us not receive the grace of God in vain. ( 2 Corinthians 6:1) May we instead allow it to educate and train us up in the manner in which we as children of God should live. In this way our life will continue to be brought in line with God's Will and will be lived in a manner in which our sincerest appreciation for the GRACE OF GOD will be revealed.

Have a great day OF GRACE EDUCATED AND TRAINED LIVING!
Carl

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