“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 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 glorious appearing 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)
Am I honestly eager to do good? Sometimes, yes, and sometimes no. The good news is: I have a choice. The bad news is: I have a choice. I liken it to the classic two-edged sword. On one hand, it’s good to know I have free will. On the other hand, sometimes I wish I didn’t have the choice, either because I’m indecisive or because I choose the wrong path.
I’m reminded of Paul writings, I want to do the right thing, yet I do the opposite. I don’t do what I’m supposed to do, and do what I’m not supposed to do at times. Ever feel like that? I sure do!
Yet, God gave himself for us/for me…desiring to redeem us from all wickedness and purify us for himself. He wants you and me all for himself, set apart for his very own, and eager to do what is good. That should be incentive enough alone for me to try harder to be self-controlled and godly—not in my own strength—but in his limitless strength and power.
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