END TIMES READING PLAN: Joel 2-3
SCRIPTURE READING
1 Timothy 1:14-16; The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the
faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the
world to save sinners–of whom I am the 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 and receive eternal life.
We are saved by the grace of God – by His completely undeserved kindness. When we
were destined to hell, we were given eternal life with a loving God. This grace means that
there is mercy for us when we sin. He sees us at our worst points of shame and guilt; and
it is there where He says “I love you.” When Jesus went to the cross, He burdened all
sin, even those which have brought much scarring. Even if we have inflicted wounds on
ourselves and others, He has been wounded and scarred so that we may be healed. What
a mind-blowing truth!
Of course there are those who trample on God’s grace, using it as a “get-out-of-sin-free”
card – something the apostle Paul spoke adamantly against (Rom 6). However in trying to
stay far from this line, we also risk the pride that comes from trying to attain righteousness
alone. We strive and strive for perfection only to plummet in self-defeat and frustration
when we fail, feeling unloved and unforgiven. But our Father is not fickle, and He does not
suffer with offense and anger as we do. He is patient and compassionate; slow to anger
and abounding in love. His grace is free and He is quick to forgive.
Paul called himself the worst of all sinners. Was he? There is no way to compare; all sin
deserves death and all sinners have been offered life abundant by the grace of God.
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1) Ask God to point out any was that you have refused to accept His grace. What has kept
you from taking this gift?
2) Spend some time in listening prayer asking God to give you a personal revelation of His
grace.
3) Ask God to reveal any misconceptions that you have of Him and His character. Ask Him
to give you a true picture of who He is.
