Ginny - Titus 2

Good Morning Girlz!

S - "For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldy passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope - the appearing of the glory 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

O - Yesterday Paul told us to "love what is good." (self-control, uprightness, holiness, discipline) Today he tells us how to love what is good, and the answer is...to turn from that which is bad. Sounds easy enough, right? Not so much, or at least not for me!!! Why does the "bad" always look so tempting and easier than going through the narrow gate? I think Paul understood that saying no was easier said than done, because he goes on to give us hope. That hope is all the joy, grace, and blessings we have through our risen Savior! Paul puts the emphasis on being thankful rather than looking at what we are giving up.

A - An attitude of gratitude, we even talked about this last night in my meeting. How often we make excuses for exercise, but at least we can move our arms and legs. We should be thankful for the bodies we have and therefore train them in a healthy way. Thankfulness produces a positive attitude and strength and perspective to say NO to what is not good. Often times I don't chose to love what is good because the other option is easier. It is easier to just dismiss someone who annoys me rather than be patient and love them. It is easier to use all my free time for me and what I want to do rather than give time to meet others' needs. It is easier to save and spend money only on what I need for the month rather than go out on a limb and meet a need of someone else. It is easier to make excuses why my house wouldn't be a good host home rather than open up my door for church get-togethers. It is easier... It is easier... It is easier...

P - Oh how I want to love what is good! I want to see things through God's eyes not through my selfish perspective. Lord, please prick my spirit that I may stop and think before I go down the easier road out of habit. May I be different for You, and when others notice may I point them to You.