December 2 Advent Devotional
“This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. I am the worst of them, but God was merciful to me in order that Christ Jesus might show his full patience in dealing with me, the worst of sinners, as an example for all those who would later believe in him and receive eternal life. To the eternal King, immortal and invisible, the only God – to him be honor and glory forever and ever! Amen.” – 1 Timothy 1:15-17
An excerpt from Paul’s first letter to Timothy in which Paul is issuing a warning against false teachings in the church. It seems like it’s getting harder and harder these days to find the truth or to know what to believe. Imagine being told “this is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed” prior to receiving additional information. Would you be skeptical? Such a bold and intriguing statement.
Paul then states that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners and then claims to be the worst of sinners. We know that Paul was a blasphemer, a persecutor and a violent man, but is he the worst? We sometimes feel that our sins are the worst but all you have to do is turn on the television or read the news to find sins being committed that are more heinous than anything you would ever think of committing. Paul reassures us that Jesus is patient and merciful.
We are all sinners and Paul reminds us that Jesus is patient with us as we learn from our mistakes and put our faith in Him. Be mindful of this when you witness the sins of others or when you feel like you have been wronged by someone else. And remember that Christ is merciful and forgiving.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son Jesus Christ to save us. Please forgive our sins and guide us to do what is right in your eyes. Help us be as patient and merciful as Christ has shown us. To the eternal King, immortal and invisible, the only God – to him be honor and glory forever and ever! Amen.
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