I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 1 Timothy 1:12-15
In writing to his understudy Timothy, Paul reminds him that the law of God must be taught properly because it brings sinners to the realization of our need for a Savior. Paul was aware of his own prior life of sinfulness and recognized how ignorantly and faithless he had been. But now, in Christ, he found grace and mercy and eternal purpose in preaching the gospel. People will never really find their eternal purpose (this side of heaven), unless they place their complete life in the control of God. We may find temporary purpose, sprinkled with an occasional ‘God moment’, but how incredible it is when we discover the real purpose for which we were made, giving glimpse to the eternal state when we will fully be activated in that very purpose in God’s eternal kingdom.
How trustworthy am I with what God has given me? Am I operating with the strength He has given?
Lord, I want to be propelled along today by Your wisdom, strength and purpose. Please give me the grace and mercy I need and prompting throughout the day as I am led by Your abiding Holy Spirit.
