Titus 2:11-14

Titus 2:11-14 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  It's January 2, and new year's resolutions around the world have already been broken.  Some made it a whole day, while others didn't even last until lunchtime.  These broken promises to ourselves are met with a combination of shame and resignation, and we promise ourselves that we'll try again next year. 
  Here in Titus, there are a few things to point out.  Yes, we are being trained to renounce ungodliness with the hopes that we'll live self-controlled and godly lives.  The process of sanctification is how God slowly helps us grow throughout our entire lives. 
  But who appears to train us?  It is the grace of God, the same grace that brings salvation.  It is Jesus Christ who has already given himself for our redemption.  We have been purchased, before the process of training and self-control even begins.  Jesus has purified us for his own possession, and so as a result, we have a zeal for good works.  Remember the order, friends, so that our failures may not discourage us, but rather be a reminder that we have been saved by the blood of the lamb.