1 Timothy 1 Devotions by Stephen Taylor

1 Timothy 1:15,16

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 immense patience as an example for those who would believe in Him and receive eternal life.

Paul is using this as an encouragement, saying, “If I can be saved, then so can anyone.” But this morning, I had a thought: what if we had this same heart posture? Who is the worst sinner I know? The correct answer is me! I can't be condemned for your sins but only for mine; if it's only my sins that separate me from God, then I first and foremost need to address and take care of my sins. In order to deal with my sins, I must realize the depth and severity of them; then, I can accept the truth about my condition and turn away from sins and towards the Lord. The more I sugar coat my sins, the farther I will get away from the Lord, but the more honest I can be, the closer I will get to Him! What a beautiful way to live!

This not only addresses the glaring issue of my sins, but it also will help to give me a softer heart towards others and their condition. Let me explain. If I view myself and my sins as the worst of the worst, then it will be easier for me to accept and love on you because I'm not viewing you as worse than me or less than me. Too often, we put human standards on sins; we can say things like, "At least I'm not like……" or, "But I have never done….". We have to remember that even one sin will separate us from the Lord and that Christ came to pay for all of them, not just some! So, I will echo Paul today and say thank You, Jesus, for saving me, the worst sinner I know!

1 Peter 2:24,25-"He Himself bore our sins" in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; "by His wounds, you have been healed." For "you were like sheep going astray," but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

God bless! I love you all, but His love is soul-saving! Glory, honor, and praise now and forever to Papa God, Jesus Christ our Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit!