1. Ready to do what is good (1-5a)

Paul says that Christians should do what is good (1, 8b,14). Once, we did what was evil. To a greater or lesser degree all of us were foolish, disobedient, and enslaved by passions and pleasures. We kept grudges and envy in our hearts. But we who have tasted the mercy, grace and love of God must now do what is good. This means that we should show consideration and humility to all people. We should be careful not to injure others by what we say; rather, we should build up others. We have peace with God, so we should have peace with men.

2. God's love for mankind (5b-8)

God loves all mankind, so he sent his only Son Jesus to save us. God, in his great mercy, not only forgives our sins by the grace of Jesus, but he also washes us by his word and Spirit; he changes us in the inner person, taking away all bitterness and anger. He gives us new hope and makes us heirs of eternal life.

Application: Father, thank you for loving this sinful human race, and for loving and saving me. Help me to do what is good.
One Word: Saved by grace to do what is good