The grace which has appeared in Jesus Christ is a training grace. It teaches us to renounce ungodliness (speak against it and reject it for our lives). It teaches us to live self-controlled. It teaches us to live upright and godly lives even in this present age. In the midst of self-indulgence we can be self-controlled. In the midst of a cultural flow which is drowning in all manner of sins, we are taught by grace to be upright and holy.
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:11-13 ESV)
From “Growing Toward Maturity”, by H. Lamar Smith.
