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Today's Scripture

"He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior."  -Titus 3:5-6 (NIV)"

"Therefore, I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, 'Jesus be cured,' and no one can say, 'Jesus is Lord,' except by the Holy Spirit."                 -1 Corinthians 12:3 (NIV)

 

Reflect on the Word

In a letter with ethical advice and calls to good works, Paul emphasizes that our good deeds are not a way to earn God's favor, but a response to the grace we've already received in Jesus Christ (Titus 3:5). We have already received God's grace through His incredible mercy, given to us freely. Yes, we are called to live disciplined, purified and spiritually committed lives-not to get closer to God, but because we want our own lives to reflect our new identity in Him.

Paul also refers to the "washing" work of the Spirit, a reminder that through baptism, God has cleansed us by His Spirit. We don't do good to earn this cleansing, or His favor; we live out our faith as a grateful response to Him for saving and redeeming us.

 

Prayer + Contemplation

  1. Reflect on the grace and mercy you have received through Jesus Christ. How has this unearned favor given you a new identity in Him? How does this mercy motivate you to live your life in response to this?
  2. Ask the Holy Spirit for the strength and guidance to help you live a disciplined and spiritually committed life, embodying the grace and mercy you have been shown.
  3. Lift up those who are struggling to understand the concept of God's grace. Pray that they may come to know the joy and freedom of living as recipients of God's unearned favor.