For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age… —Titus 2:11-12
Grace is not about excuses for our sins, but about a deep-seated thanksgiving for pardon and a life-changing commitment to say, “No!” to all that is evil, corrupt, and wicked, no matter how alluring or how pervasive those temptations and desires may be, and no matter how prevalent they are in our culture. As Paul taught the Ephesians, we have received mercy and grace so we could be saved FROM sin, death, and hell (Ephesians 2:6-8), and so we can be saved FOR doing what is good (Ephesians 2:10).