”12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.”
Titus 2:12
To drink, or not to drink. That is today’s question.
The Bible teaches us that drinking alcohol in moderation is perfectly acceptable to God.
But, not all men and women are created equal. A number of us can handle booze, but many others can’t.
One example is my friend Sommer. She’s a single mom who works full-time as a dental hygienist, and even temps on weekends to suplement her income. Although she is surrounded by toxic people, drunks and drug addicts, she has been overcoming her challenges sober, for over a month.
So today, I address a topic of great significance in our spiritual journey – sobriety, and how it intertwines with the profound concept of forgiveness.
Our verse for today is found in Titus 2:12, which reads, “It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age.”
The first part of our verse instructs us that sobriety teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions.
In a world that constantly bombards us with distractions, temptations, and instant gratifications, maintaining a sober mind becomes an essential aspect of our Christian walk.
Sobriety is not limited to abstaining from substances that alter our minds, but it encompasses a holistic approach to self-discipline. It encourages us to remain vigilant and watchful over our thoughts, actions, and desires, ensuring they align with God’s Word.
The second part of our verse emphasizes that sobriety leads us to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives.
Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit that allows us to resist the pull of sin and make wise choices. It enables us to overcome impulsive behaviors that distance us from God’s purpose for our lives. By cultivating self-control, we foster a heart that seeks righteousness and godliness, enabling us to be a light in this present age.
The Power of Forgiveness
How does forgiveness intertwine with sobriety?
In the pursuit of a sober and self-controlled life, we encounter our own failings and those of others. Unforgiveness can become a stumbling block on our journey, hindering our progress.
Jesus taught us about the significance of forgiveness through His words and actions. In Matthew 6:14-15, He said, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Forgiveness and sobriety share a common thread – they both require us to let go of the burdens that weigh down our souls.
Just as sobriety calls us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness, forgiveness calls us to say ‘No’ to bitterness and resentment. When we choose to forgive, we free ourselves from the chains of anger and hurt. This release allows us to focus on our journey toward godliness without being weighed down by the burdens of the past.
In understanding the connection between sobriety and forgiveness, we must look to our ultimate role model – God. Through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, God forgave us of our sins, showing us a love and mercy beyond measure.
If the Creator of the universe can extend such immense forgiveness to us, how much more should we be willing to forgive one another? Ephesians 4:32 urges us to “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
As we reflect on Titus 2:12 and the interplay of sobriety and forgiveness, let us remember that our journey of faith is marked by constant growth and transformation.
Sobriety equips us to live self-controlled lives that honor God, while forgiveness empowers us to walk in the freedom of Christ’s love.
As we strive for sobriety of mind and heart, may we also embrace the power of forgiveness, releasing the chains that bind us and embracing the grace that sets us free.
Let us extend forgiveness as we have been forgiven and walk hand in hand with our Savior, living out the beautiful balance of sobriety and grace in this present age.
Were you able to glean and grow from this message so God can be further glorified and His Kingdom magnified? If so, I would love to hear from you. Follow this link to get in touch… Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your presence in our lives,
We praise you Lord for the wisdom bestowed upon Paul and Matthew,
And we ask you Lord to help us find joy in your perfect plan.
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through your Word, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by the truth as we spread the good news to one and all,
And lead the lost to You.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us,
To bless our lives and fill us with hope.
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and our place with you in Heaven
According to your ways, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done, here on Earth and through the vast Universe,
May our hearts be filled with your everlasting love and grace.
Praises to You God, Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
