Joel M Bradshaw

12I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. 13Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

15Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But 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. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.–1 Timothy 1

1. I have a past with sin of which I am not proud.
2. I would you imagine you do, as well.
3. This certainly also described Paul…even Paul. THE Paul.
4. God’s bright mercy showed strongly with someone with such a dark past. Those who have felt that mercy might just wipe away grateful tears right now.
5. Paul’s past kept him humble. That grace Paul often wrote about is never deserved. And Paul felt that!
6. Paul’s story served as an example for others. With God as the hero, your story does, as well.
7. I love that Paul wrote this as an old guy to a young guy. God uses our broken messes for His message. He authors our story for His glory!–JMB