photo #9467109

7. That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.Titus 3:7; KJV. In Titus 3, Paul instructs believers to live respectfully, peacefully, and humbly toward others. He reminds them that they were once lost in sin but were saved through God's mercy, not by their own works. Through regeneration and the renewing work of the Holy Spirit, believers are justified by grace and become heirs of eternal life. Because of this salvation, Christians should devote themselves to good works, avoid foolish arguments, and live useful, productive lives for God's glory. Today's verse, being justified—meaning "just as if I never sinned"—is a gift from God, by grace, accomplished by Jesus's death on the cross. We can do nothing to earn it; it is a gift to be received by faith, with the reward of eternal life. By grace we are saved, making us heirs and children of God's kingdom, destined for life eternal with Christ. After one accepts Jesus as Savior, the Holy Ghost has the job of regenerating and renewing us into the image of Christ, which is the ultimate hope of every real Christian. Practical application for believers: salvation is God's gift, good works cannot save, trust God's mercy, live the life of a new creation, and support God's word and His work by being a blessing to all. Lessons learned: believers should be gentle and kind, showing a generous spirit; God's grace is free, so share it with others; salvation produces good works; you cannot be justified without Christ; and the Holy Ghost renews believers, so follow His lead, for you cannot live a Christian life successfully without Him. Amen.