Trustworthy, as defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, means dependable, worthy of confidence. Other words for trustworthy are reliable, dependable, responsible, secure, sold, and tried-and-true.
Our verse of the day comes from 1 Timothy 1:12-16.
“I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me 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 in him and receive eternal life.”
Let’s dig in.
The Apostle Paul offers young Timothy some trustworthy advice that he should accept because it is reliable, dependable, and secure. But first, he tells Timothy who he used to be. He is a changed man because of the mercy of Jesus Christ.
If you don’t know who Paul used to be and how he used to live, you can find the details of his life in the book of Acts. Read Acts Chapter 9, verses 1 through 19. Don’t get confused by a guy named Saul in that chapter. He is our guy Paul. It’s a great story of redemption.
Thinking back.
When I think of who I used to be, I am so grateful for the mercy of the Lord. I am not who I used to be either, specifically thinking back to my early twenties and thirties. I wasted so many years not walking with the Lord. Thanks to his mercy and grace in my own life, now, like Paul, all I can think about is sharing the good news.
One cannot help but be excited and on fire for the Lord when a life-changing transformation occurs. I always tell my friends, God gave me a big mouth to tell everything he has done, and he has done great things in my life.
We mistaking think Jesus couldn’t possibly love us or want us because of all we have done. He longs to transform our lives. He isn’t interested in us staying the same because, as Paul states above, the Lord is hoping by watching our transformations, others will believe and accept him as Lord.
Your life can be an example for others of the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. Allow him to use you to bring glory to himself. The Lord will do it if you are willing.
Blessings!
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