APRIL 28: BE DISCIPLINED BY GRACE

Combining Grace and Discipline seemingly appears to be oxymoronic (contradictory) as some might propose. The subject of discipline to many depicts or connotes restraints, legalism, rules and regulations. While Grace on the other hand, connotes freedom or liberty from rules, a God who loves us unconditionally, in spite of our flaws, weaknesses and regardless of our sinful behavior. However, such reflections or thoughts show a lack of understanding of what both grace and discipline are.

A close examination of the scriptural text for today, Titus 2:11-12 reveals to us what Paul meant when he wrote that, “for the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us…” It actually goes beyond the idea of imparting knowledge and instruction. However, looking at the word used from its original context of rearing children, it depicts also admonition, reproof, punishment, training, all being administered in love for the benefit of the child (Eph. 6:4). So, training or teaching is encompassing. It must be noted that saving grace and discipline are inseparable.

One of the ways to adequately respond to the redemptive (saving) grace of God is to adhere wholly to the training and discipline it administers. The same GRACE teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions and likewise teaches to say ‘Yes’ to self-control, uprightness, and not LAW. God is disciplining us by His grace. Therefore, we do not respond based on the burden of guilt, instead we rely on our union with Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit for the power to respond to God’s training.

PRAYER: Dear lord, I receive grace to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions. I receive grace to say ‘Yes’ to self-control, uprightness and godliness.