Three Divine Dynamics
To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour. - Titus 1:4 (KJV)
Salutations or greetings play a prominent part in the opening of a written document. It is usually the first thing that the recipient will read. Therefore it's important that you offer an appropriate level of familiarity and respect when writing a letter. Our text turns our thoughts to what I consider to be three divine dynamics that are presented in Paul's salutation to his spiritual son, Titus. Before we unpackage these thoughts, let’s consider the term dynamic. Dynamics, used as a plural verb, is defined as the motivating or driving forces, physical or moral, in any field. Dynamic, used as a noun, is defined as a basic or dynamic force, especially one that motivates, affects development or stability, etc.
In his salutations, Paul shared words typical for a greeting in the ancient world. However, when Paul employed these words, they were not used merely as standard terminology. Having been gripped by the hand of God, Paul guides us effectively to the source of all grace, mercy and peace. These words come from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior. Paul uses these words in four different instances (1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4 and 2 John 1:3) to promote what I believe to be three divine dynamics that encourage, develop, and deepen our faith as well as grant us the stability and substance that is essential for victory in a lost world.
It is important to note that genuine born-again people are not exempt from the negative consequences of an earth that has been cursed and groans for redemption.
“For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.” - Romans 8:22 (KJV)
It is also a given that we will suffer on all fronts and on all levels and at different degrees
“For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake” - Philippians 1:29 (KJV)
However, the great news and the great truth is that our God gives us dynamics that are non-existent for those that are alienated from God and virtually impossible for those outside the kingdom of God to achieve. We who are His children know that His grace is amazing, His mercy is matchless and eternal and His peace surpasses all natural comprehension! So when life takes a serious turn toward trials, tests, tribulation and tragedy and when your path is paved with perplexity and pounding pain, make a choice to leave the lies of self-pity and deny the perspective of a deceitful heart. Choose to shut down the seduction of sorrow and dive into the divine dynamics of grace, mercy and peace that comes from God our Father and our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.
Not a Sermon But a Thought,
PBKSR