Devotional by Jordan Harmelink

Have you ever had an "ah-ha" moment? That moment when something suddenly clicks—when what was once confusing or hidden becomes clear.

There are two passages that show us moments of clarity - where God's grace flips that light switch on.

Titus 2:11–13 (ESV)

“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.”

This is a big picture "ah-ha" moment. Paul is saying that when God’s grace appeared (through Jesus) it wasn’t just about saving us from something. It was about opening our eyes to something.

Grace teaches us and gives us clarity on how we’re meant to live: self-controlled, upright, full of purpose, full of hope.

That’s a huge jump from just trying to "be better" on our own.

John 8:1–11 (ESV)
This story of the woman caught in adultery is powerful. She’s thrown before Jesus, shamed, used as a trap by the religious leaders. Technically, the law gave them reason to stone her. But Jesus doesn’t respond the way they expected.

He bends down and writes in the dirt. Then He says something that sparks an “ah-ha” moment for everyone there:

“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.”

Suddenly, it’s quiet. Rocks drop to the ground. People walk away, one by one. And this woman, expecting death, receives mercy. Grace.

Her lightbulb moment wasn’t just that Jesus defended her. It was realizing that the one man in the crowd who could have condemned her—didn’t. Instead, He offered freedom.

“Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.”

In both Titus and John, we see that grace is a teacher. Grace shows us how to live differently and it doesn’t ignore sin. Instead, it meets us in it, forgives us, and says, “There’s a better way.”

What’s your lightbulb today?

• Maybe you’ve been trying to earn grace, when it’s already been given.
• Maybe you’ve felt judged, but Jesus is saying, “I don’t judge you.”
• Maybe it’s time to drop the stones you’re holding—toward others or even yourself.

God is always revealing more of His grace and truth.