Grace and living by the Spirit
(Devotional #2 in the “Refined by Faith” Series)
Scripture Focus
Titus 2:11–12 (NIV)
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
Devotional
Grace is more than forgiveness. There is power is God Grace.
When Paul writes to Titus, he reminds us that God’s grace doesn’t simply save us from past sins — it trains us to live differently. Grace and the Spirit work together, shaping us into children who reflect their Father.
I like to start by saying that from the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, we became enemies of God, the Creator of all things. Yet Scripture says:
Romans 5:10 (NIV): “For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!”
Once again, God reveals His divine character by making grace available to His disobedient children. Jesus Christ died on the cross for all mankind—for our sins. And by grace, through faith, we receive eternal life.
We must thank God for extending grace to sinners. Grace is receiving what we do not deserve.
Reflection Questions
In what ways have you experienced God’s grace shaping how you live today?
How can you extend grace to others, reflecting the grace God has given you?
In what area of your life do you need to allow grace to “train” you more deeply?
Prayer
Kind and Loving Father,
Thank You, Lord, for sending Your grace through Jesus Christ—grace that saves and grace that trains. We confess that we need a Savior in our lives, and we also need Your grace daily to sustain us. Holy Spirit, strengthen us to say “No” to ungodliness and “Yes” to a life that honors You. Let our choices, thoughts, and desires reflect the transforming power of grace at work within us.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Next Steps in Faith
Read Titus 2 in full this week to understand Paul’s full teaching on godly living
Identify one area where you need to let grace “train” you and pray over it daily