For the last 8 months or more I have been reading through the four Gospels in personal worship time. During those months I think I have been through Matthew and Mark 3 times and Luke and John 2 times each.
But a comment made by a teammate recently about one of Paul's letters made me realize my current engagement with other sections of Scripture is lacking. So I've taken a break from the Gospels for now and have been reading through 1 Timothy for the last several days. These are great verses from chapter 1 . . .
"15This is a true saying, and everyone should believe it: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--and I was the worst of them all. 16But that is why 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. 17Glory and honor to God forever and ever. He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen."
Isn’t it interesting that the older Paul got, the more aware he was of sin in his life? But even more fascinating is his description of how others came to know Christ because of God’s mercy and forgiveness in his own life. I never thought that my struggle with sin and God's wonderful forgiveness might be attractive to others, but it makes sense!
Thanks Lord. I'm grateful for Your love. I worship You just like Paul did in these verses . . . You are the Eternal King.
Posted by Lee at April 20, 2005 08:30 AM