Unparalleled Grace for Unparalleled Sinners

Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Theme: God loves pouring his favor on the unlikely and undeserving.
Key verses: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service” (v. 12). “The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus…Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners–of whom I am worst. 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…” (v. 14-16a).
What God said to me: Dwayne, too often you take my grace for granted. You too are a great sinner. You too need my great mercy–in great amounts. I’ve held back much judgment and wrath from you. I’ve forgiven you for every sin you’ve ever committed or ever will commit. They are all under the blood of my precious Son, whom I watched suffer and die. You weren’t there. You can’t possibly understand the pain and the agony he went through. You can’t fully comprehend the love we have for you and for all mankind. Dwayne, I am calling to you right now. I am reminding you in no uncertain terms that my grace has been poured out on you. I favor you–not first of all because you deserve it, but because you don’t deserve it. Others will look at you and wonder, why you? You should look at you and wonder the same. It’s simply because I love you and have big plans for you. Stay humble. Shun evil. Seek my face. Even more favor is available. Trust and obey.
What I said to God: Father, God of the ages, Alpha and Omega, Beginning and the End, I worship and adore you right now. I lay my life before you. Please forgive me for my sinful thoughts and actions. I run a close second to Paul, the self-proclaimed cheif of sinners. And I had better be incredibly thankful and humbled by your great love and faith and mercy poured out on me and my family.