May 27, 2024 Daily Dose of Discernment

But God had mercy on me so that Jesus could use me as an example to show everyone how patient He is with even the worst sinners, that others will realize they too can have eternal life. (1 Timothy 1:16)

Before the verse above, Paul proclaims that Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom he is foremost. And for this reason, God was especially kind to him, revealing His infinite goodness and mercy toward His worst offenders. This loudly proclaims that if He can be merciful to the most sinful person, He can have mercy on the rest, and desires that all come to repentance and have eternal life. It also reveals His will to use even the cruelest persecutors and His ability to turn them into powerful witnesses.

The beauty of God is He causes all things to work together for good, including people on whom others give up. Knowing this, we should not be deceived into a false humility and think we are too unworthy to be used by Him. Rather, let us realize that anyone who says yes to Him can be His instrument. His power and love are greater than our unworthiness, and He is greater than condemning hearts.