This morning God presented another example of “patience” in His word.
When I hear testimonies of those who have done some “serious sinning” (according to man) and how God got a hold of their lives and transformed them, I am always inspired.
My testimony always seemed dull and boring compared to those who have overcome some wild addictions and/or habits. But when I look back on the sins I’ve done in my life, and no way am I going to broadcast them now for my children to see, boy oh boy am I grateful for my God that is full of mercy, grace, love, and forgiveness! I am a sinner saved by grace. Amen and amen!!
I can recall a home visit that Tim and I made to some folks who had been visiting our church and when we presented the plan of salvation to the gentleman he commented on how he had done so wrong that he needed to clean up his act before he gave his life to Christ. Are you kidding me? That’s just the comment that Satan wants us all to think needs to happen before we give our lives to Christ. If we believe that, then the Father of Lies can have his grip on us a little bit longer.
Paul’s example and testimony is evident that we don’t need to “clean up our act before we give our lives to Christ”, but God will simply meet us and change our life for us. God will transform you. Allow Him to do so.
In 1 Timothy 1:12-17 God reminded me of how we are all sinners and He is a grand example of extreme patience.
Paul’s Gratitude for God’s Mercy
12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, 13 even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. 14 Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.
15 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them all. 16 But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.
There are so many key points in these six verses that we need to remember:
- God gives us strength to do His work.
- God has mercy on man.
- He is generous and gracious.
- He will fill us with faith and love.
- Christ cam to save us sinners.
- He uses us as examples.
- God is patient.
- All we need to do is believe in Him and receive everlasting life.
- God is given all the glory and honor.
- He is the eternal King.
- He lives forever.
- He is God alone!
Can I get an “Amen!”?
Thank God for saving a sinner like me.
Blessings and God’s abundant love to y’all.
