Daily Reading February 27 2010 from 1 Timothy 1:12-20 NIV

Day 48

Sorry for the delay on days 48 & 49 as many of you know I was in Allen, OK. preaching a revival and had no internet access.

1 Timothy 1:12-20 NIV
12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service.13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners–of whom I am the worst.16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 18 Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight,19 holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith. 20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.

Second Chances!
Our God is a God of second chances. Paul begins today's reading with this statement "Even though I was once a blasphemer and persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy" not only was Paul shown mercy he was called to ministry and even the writing of God's Word. Paul says was shown mercy because he acted out of ignorance and unbelief but God's grace was poured out on him in abundance. Paul goes on to say that "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" Paul says in the following verse "I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His unlimited patience as an example" an example for unbelievers. With this kind of example of the love and grace of God every one alive has a hope of a second chance. Remember your second chance! Regardless of your past whether you were one of the worst as Paul described himself or raised in church all your life you are still living by the grace of God. Jesus gave every man a second chance to serve God.

Blessings,

Pastor Larry