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, 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.  Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.

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.  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.  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. 
1 Tim 1:12-17 (NLT)

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As I read the Bible passage above, I’m struck by Paul’s enthusiasm and excitement for God. The deep joy and gratitude behind his words are surprising. Why? Just a few verses earlier, he was recounting many of the horrible acts of violence and pride he was committing when he met Jesus. Paul was on the way to accuse, beat, and drag people to Jerusalem to be killed for their faith when Jesus appeared to him on the road. 

Think about it. How do you respond when you remember your own selfish and mean-spirited conduct? There are a variety of ways we can respond to our guilt. We often justify our actions or blame others. Sometimes, we avoid our guilt through distraction. And at other times, we succumb to the paralysis and depression of shame. Paul’s response is radically different. Paul celebrates! How is he able to do that?

When Paul examines his sinful acts,  he takes responsibility for them and looks at Jesus. Paul wrote, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Paul understands that selfishness, pride, and unkindness are the ugly part of our humanity. When we think or behave badly, we should not be surprised. Instead, we can be grateful. Paul sees that these same liabilities demonstrate how exceedingly forgiving and loving God is. God gave everything to have a relationship with us and save us from ourselves. Paul uses his memories to look at God. He is deeply humbled by not only God’s willingness to forgive him but also his ability to use Paul for the incredible work of bringing God’s will to earth. That is why Paul praises God and celebrates. Paul knows that God has every right to punish and reject him. Instead, God rescues, forgives, and enlists Paul on His team. 

God desires that all His children know beyond knowledge how completely loved they are and become increasingly free from sin, living empowered by the Holy Spirit. Paul says he writes so others will know that they are never so bad that they cannot experience God’s love and fullness of life. Be encouraged! “There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). “We are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Eph 2:10 NLT).

Next Steps

1. Make time to talk with God about the Bible verses in this devotional. Ask Him to expose anything that prevents you from believing that they are true for you. 
2. Pray for God to give you a grateful heart.