The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.
1 Timothy 1:15–16, ESV
Paul was speaking to those he was teaching about the gift he received through Jesus Christ. If he, in his imperfection, can be not only accepted by Christ but chosen to be an Apostle, how much greater is the hope for us? As we realize our own shortcomings and failures, we can understand God’s perfection and the work He is doing within us. We are His people, not because we have done anything to deserve it, but because He has chosen us to be the vessels in which He can work. As we give in and submit ourselves to the Lord, we find that he is the one working change in us. In me, I see His work. He is the one who has brought greater change into my life. He has been the one that has blessed me. I have not received anything because I deserve it. For this reason, I worship Him, who is most deserving of my worship. In Christ alone can I hope. He is the one who is working great change in me, and He is working great change in all who believe and trust in Him. Daily, we walk in the newness and promise that He gives because He is our Lord. He is the promised one. He is the Savior. His mercy abounds, and in Him alone can I know eternal life. I am a sinner, and through Jesus Christ, I am redeemed! This redemption stands for all who believe and trust in Him.
Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.