Jim Vining‎ to Understanding the Times SS Class

2 hrs · 

Titus 3:5-6 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 

Unless our religion, understanding and faith inspires life changing devotion, personal obligation and conviction we must reevaluate our personal commitment to Jesus Christ. It is God’s immeasurable grace and mercy that gives mankind the opportunity to come to the truth. He allows many to flounder in spiritual darkness while freely giving us the privilege of accepting His life-giving Spirit – never interfering with our right to choose. Unfortunately, more have placed far more emphasis upon cleaning up our behavior than transforming our heart. The Holy Spirit was sent to change the way we think knowing that holiness will blossom in the life inspired by devotion and gratitude. Man’s religious piety often surpasses his desire to truly submit to the inner most workings of the Holy Spirit. We are quick to extol the religion we can exhibit before men and neglect the faith and obedience we are required to be given God. We can immerse ourselves in doctrine and principal and never experience the abiding presence of our Creator. Unless we see our faith from the inside/out it remains little more than our self-righteous desire for blessings. 

Read through the Bible in one year – Mar. 29/ Luke 5:1-16; Judg. 7,8