June 19, 2011 (II Kings 1-3; Psalm 82; I Timothy 1)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “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.” I Timothy 1:16 NLT
Observation: Paul counted himself as the worst of all sinners. He surely struggled with people talking about what all he did before Christ found him on Damascus road. No doubt, the scholars of that day, tried to disqualify him from service. But he knew God cleansed him and called him to proclaim the gospel. God would use what the religious leaders touted as unworthy, to proclaim God’s truth of grace!
Application: Be careful how you judge someones past. Even though they may be a convicted felon, God indeed uses people just like this to show the example of grace. Leaders should be proven, but to disqualify someone based on sins committed before Christ entered them is unjust and unrighteous. To be blameless is not to be confused with to have been sinless. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.
Prayer: Father impart to me the boldness and confidence of Paul. Focus my eyes on things which are ahead and not behind. Confirm in my very soul the call you’ve placed in my life. Settle within me the assurance of your blessing. In Jesus name, Amen.