GOD’S GRACE AND MERCY
Opening Prayer
Thank you, Jesus, for your grace and mercy that have been poured out in abundance for me, allowing me to know you and grow in you.
Read 1 TIMOTHY 1:12-20
The Lord’s Grace to Paul
12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. 13 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. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
The Charge to Timothy Renewed
18 Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well, 19 holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith. 20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.
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Reflect
How did you become a Christian? Was it a sudden turnaround, or has it been a more gradual process?Paul is able to be loving in his dealings with the church in Ephesus because he remembers where he has come from and what God has done for him. He describes himself as the least of the apos- tles (1 Corinthians 15:9), less than the least of all the Lord’s people (Ephesians 3:8), and now as the worst of sinners (vs 15,16). How do you compare yourself to others?
As he gives his testimony in verses 12-17, Paul lists things he has received from the Lord—he’s been given strength, considered trustworthy, appointed to God’s service, shown mercy, and treated with patience. Besides all that, grace, faith, and love have been poured out on him abundantly!
As he considers the work God has done in his life, Paul praises God for six attributes—he is the King (of kings), eternal (who was and is and is to come), immortal (never going to die or decay, far greater than mortal humans), invisible (beyond the limits of our senses), the only God (unique), deserving of honor and glory!
Apply
What has God done in your life? Read Psalm 150, which praises God for just being God!
Closing prayer
Thank you, heavenly Father, for who you are and for all you have given me. Help me to tell others about your might, your love, and your salvation.
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