GOD'S MERCY
Scripture Reading - 1 Timothy 1:15-16
15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. KJV
These two verses of scripture remind us that Jesus loves all people, including His Beloved Children. Jesus came here to save mankind from the penalties of sin for both the saints and the sinners. There seems to be distaste for people in this world that are sinners by many in the church. We boast about having a desire to see the lost get saved but criticize the actions of sinners. Showing judgement to sinners because they act differently than a model Christian is not a good strategy for winning their soul. As Believers on the Lord Jesus Christ we should model the behavior of our Lord Jesus Christ. This means we should pray for those who are mean, and witness to those who desire to hear the good news about Jesus Christ. I can personally testify that my own deception was primarily due to a lack of knowledge and completely due to a lack of the presence of Jesus in my life. Christians need to realize that many people aren’t trying to be repulsive on purpose they are only acting out what is in their heart. If a person is in darkness they will consistently perform the works of darkness. Knowing that God has infinite “mercy” upon all will help us to appreciate His Loving Heart. This also blesses each Christian to know that “God’s mercy” is extended to everyone on the face of the earth. Yes, both saint and sinner alike need “God’s mercy” and partake of His “mercy”. Since, the Apostle Paul obtained “mercy” and longsuffering as a pattern it is affirmed by the scriptures that it was no accident but rather the nature of God. This is just a word of encouragement to the saints to never receive guilt or condemnation when we make mistakes. Don’t feel bad about yourself (or someone else) if you misunderstand something the Lord is speaking to you. Why, because He still loves us and He has already laid a foundation of being “merciful” and longsuffering with us even if we make foolish decisions. We can be totally confident that God’s goodness, love and faithfulness overwhelmingly outweighs our whole capacity to do wrong. Therefore we can continuously rejoice knowing that God always has our back independently of our works. It is by “God’s mercy” we are saved, forgiven and joyful now pass this good news on to both saint and sinner alike. Amen!