One of the greatest expressions of the gospel is found in Titus 2:11, where Paul tells us that the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. How could there be better news? What was invisible for many centuries is now in plain sight. Moreover, this grace has been manifested for all people, not just for a select few. It is what the apostle calls the power of God that brings salvation (Romans 1:16).

With this power available to us, we are sometimes disappointed to discover that grace may also involve pain. For most people, the word power suggests instant transformation and easy achievement. We often forget that grace is a teacher who gives very specific instructions.

In Titus 2:12, we learn what that plan is. This teacher (grace) teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live with self-control, upright and godly lives. We can learn to say no to sin. We can learn what holiness is and find ways to acquire it. But only through God's grace can we live righteously.

This learning can take time. But progress in this school is as much a tribute to God's grace as it is to the changes that occur after a person is saved.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I want to thank you for the undeserved gift of grace. You extended it to me, and I just had to accept it. Let me extend Your grace to other people, and give of what was given to me by Your grace… the message of salvation. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

1.    Titus 2:11-12 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.