For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

What a week it has been. The 2022 midterm elections are in our rear-view mirror. What was thought to be the arrival of a “Red Wave” has instead ended up being a “Red Puddle” at best. For the follower of Christ, it is becoming clearer than ever; we are living in a Post-Modern Christian America. For some that is no surprise, for others it is seemingly an insurmountable obstacle leading to sadness and regret. For others it is a revelation that ultimately leads to hopelessness. Here is the good of what I am taking from yet another reminder of Americas rapid moral decline. 

Keep a proper perspective: In Paul’s letter to Titus, we are reminded that Jesus came for all of humanity and through the cross and by His grace Jesus offers salvation to all men. That means, the promise is that God’s very Spirit lives in us. We belong to Him! The result of belonging is that our minds are being transformed into the image of Jesus. (Rom 12:1,2). The Holy Spirit is now our teacher. Making us more Christ like. So, we can navigate through this world well knowing we are light bearers carrying with us God’s strength, power and wisdom.  

Don’t be surprised. History will always repeat itself. Solomon was right when he said, “there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecc 1:9). In a fallen world sin will always abound. We cannot expect carnal man to hold to spiritual principles (Rom 7:18) but we must press on holding unswerving (Heb 10:23).

Don’t be complicit: Paul warns Titus to deny ungodliness and worldly lust. Meaning, we are to acknowledge that we live in this world while at the same time refusing to conform to this world (1 John 2:15). We are pilgrims passing through; strangers in a strange land (Phil 3:20,21; Ex 2:22). Instead, Paul says, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly lives in this present age.    

Hope in what is sure:  If we are following Jesus, our eyes must be on Him and Him alone. He is “our prize” (Heb 12:1,2).  Through Christ we can walk through this world with power, purpose and direction knowing that our Lord and Savior is with us now and forevermore. This life is only but a moment, eternity is forever.

One last thought. As my opening words noted. Waves will come and go. There is no sure thing in this life, no comfort in this world outside of Christ. If your emotions are influenced by politics, you will surely be disappointed. It is true, we are blessed to live in America and should be faithful to her, expressing our rights and privileges. 

Voting is one of them. However, don’t allow America to be your god. I am proud to be an American. I am grateful for all those who came before me to grant me the freedoms I have even to this very moment in time. One day America will pass away. She will be a distant memory of what once was (2 Peter 3:7). It is very likely you and I will see this in our lifetime. So, let us place our hopes in Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. Let us be found pure knowing we are His own special people, zealous for good works (Titus 2:14). Until next time. May God bless you and keep you, may His face shine upon you. 

                                                                                                                         In Christ,                                                                                                                                Pastor Greg 

“To know Christ and make Him known”- Phil 3:10