Year of the Bible: Part Eleven of TwelveSmakprov

Titus and Grace Titus was one of Paul’s most special helpers. He proved to be an excellent worker and servant to the churches that Paul sent him to. Titus was a gentile with a pagan background and extremely bold in leadership. Paul wrote to Titus to encourage his ministry and admonished him to remember the grace God showed by sending Jesus. Titus, like us, needed to remember that grace is not just a concept to be accepted but a person: Jesus! While the churches were awaiting Jesus’s return, Paul encouraged Titus to teach the church how to grow in grace. Growing in grace required humility to take on God’s perspective and be eager to do things God’s way! Dr. Tony Evans explains, “God’s grace is personified in the person and work of Jesus Christ and is the basis and foundation for justification and sanctification since it enables the good works we are commanded to do.” We know that our salvation is not based on works but on grace. Jesus is the grace in all of us, and a relationship with Him helps us desire to do good works for His glory. Apart from the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, it is impossible for us to walk in grace. However, when we invite the Holy Spirit to lead our day, we can walk in grace and become more like Jesus. This submission brings refreshment to our lives and allows others to see a difference in us. Question: Is it difficult for you to yield to the Holy Spirit to lead you to the grace of Jesus? Prayer: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead your day today. Take a moment to consciously submit your life to Jesus and the grace He personifies. Ask for empowerment to walk in grace, and pray that God’s grace will reflect off of you to the people around you who need Him.