1 Timothy 1:12-17
I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. (vv. 12,13)
Oh Paul. How I relate to this. Do you? Were you (or are you now) an opponent of the gospel? Do you know someone who is? Is your faith growing weary that someone in your family, a friend or a neighbor will ever come to faith in Christ?
Oh, do not be discouraged. If Jesus can save Paul, then Jesus can save anyone.
If Jesus can save me, Jesus can save anyone.
But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. (v. 14)
His grace overflows (hyperpleonazō) for those who act ignorantly in unbelief.
This word overflows means exceeds abundance.
Glory to God! Read that again. What does that look like? Exceeding abundance?? An exceeding abundance of grace! Thank you, Lord.
Who are you thinking about? Is your spirit growing faint in faith? Oh friend, no no. Be renewed. His grace exceeds abundance for the lost.
Stop and pray now. Pray for them. Renew your faith.
This [is] a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. (KJV v.15)
I just love the way this is phrased in the King James. This is a faithful saying! And worthy of, not partial, but 100% acceptance. (And I feel like I give Paul a run for his money on the chief sinner part).
Jesus Christ coming into the world to save sinners. Bottom line. This is what we are celebrating on Saturday. Hallelujah!
But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the chief, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those were to believe in him for eternal life. (v.16)
Patience (makrothymia) means long suffering. Slowness in avenging wrongs.
Jesus isn't sitting with his finger on the trigger. He is patient with us. He is slow to avenge our wrongs. I am so thankful.
To the King of ages, the immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. (v.17)
Read this last verse again. O Praise Him!
I'd love to know what passages are speaking to you today.
How could I be praying for you today? Did you think of someone today when reading this?
Share?
Speaking of sharing, let me introduce you to Jonah - a little acorn of righteousness. Sweet little angel. This picture was shared by my blogsphere friend, Kristen, as one of her favorite things. I'd say so!Jonah is singing, "Happy Birthday Jesus". This is so precious I could cry. (I bet you did Kristen!!)
Oh, those cheeks!! Thanks so much for sharing!!
I am so thankful that you came and read this today. Love you all.
Oh, thanks for posting my picture! :) I couldn't cry because I had to keep from roaring in laughter. During one of the songs, he decided to go on to an extra verse in full out holler and noone else followed. It was hysterical.
ReplyDeleteGreat post too. This really helped me refocus on God's heart towards those who may make Christmas difficult at family events and see them as He sees them....as He sees me for that matter. I'm always encouraged by your posts and so grateful God led me your way! :)
I thought of my baby brother who is currently serving time in prison. He really needs Jesus ~ for his soul & to help him through his situation.
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