1 Timothy 1

Thoughts: I’m so proud of my niece and nephew. Over the last few years, they walked down the aisles of their respective schools and received diplomas in their fields. I’m happy to say my niece is a practicing occupational therapist, and my nephew is a sales associate in commercial real estate. It seems like yesterday I babysat them. But now that they have received degrees in their various fields, they practice their craft.

When we receive a badge of honor, we can speak as an authority. It could be a new job title, a promotion, or even a business card that tells someone what we do.

Paul received his “badge of authority” the hard way. He was temporarily blinded. And even though he was ordained by Jesus himself, Paul was still sometimes feared by his brothers and sisters in Christ. Paul knew he was not perfect. He also knew he had experienced God’s patience and love. And in the first chapter of 1st Timothy, he speaks with the authority God had given him to his protégée, Timothy.

I think about all the times I’ve failed God, but I have to remind myself that His patience is infinite. Satan wants me to feel like a loser. God, however, wants me to remember I’m loved. And like Paul, God can use me no matter my past.

Key Phrases: Shown mercy; immense patience

Memory Verse: But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:16-17, NIV