Faith and Love (1 Timothy 1:14)
1 Timothy 1:14 (NIV)
14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
What’s your origin story? Or in other words what is your testimony? We all have one, much like the comic book superheroes, we all have an origin story, we may not have the ability to fly or have x-ray vision however, there was a time when we were known ‘before Christ’.
In this chapter, the apostle Paul is briefly recalling his origin story; his ‘before Christ’ life as he writes to Timothy asking him to stay on in Ephesus in order to warn those teachers who have lost their way.
It is at that point that Paul referred to himself as the chief sinner in his past. He identifies that formerly, he was a blasphemer, he persecuted and shamefully and outrageously and aggressively insulted Jesus, referring to his time of persecuting the early church.
He states that it was the grace of God and the faith and love of Jesus Christ that was poured out on him, this was done so that God’s mercy and perfect patience may be displayed to encourage those who were yet to believe.
This was done so that God’s mercy and perfect patience may be displayed to encourage those who were yet to believe.
Simply MichMich
What a powerful testimony!
Faith can bring us to a place of reflection, when we see how far we’ve come (whether we were saved 10 days or 10 years ago) knowing that it was by the grace of God and not our own righteousness. It brings us to a place of love and gratitude for what Christ Jesus has done for us.
Our origin story also helps to keep us sober and humble, helping us to avoid the pitfall of pride, self-righteousness and only living for this life.
Otherwise, we become men most miserable and deluded into thinking that our wickedness are expressions of holiness and right standing with God.
Your testimony is powerful!
I am reminded in the book of Revelations 12:11 that we overcome the devil by the blood of the Lamb of God and by the word of our ‘testimony’.
Just like the Apostle Paul your journey carries weight because Jesus died for you and He has a plan and a purpose for your life.
Be encouraged by your origin story, God has great things ahead.
This week let’s worship God for who He is, He is the great and merciful God who loves us so much.
Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to help us to examine ourselves before Him and repent for any areas that are not in line with God’s will for our lives.
Let’s thank Jesus for bringing us to a place that we can look back and see a powerful testimony of His goodness when He saved us. We thank Him for His faith and love, we thank Him for our origin story.
This is God’s word spoken in love. Remember The LORD our God, He is good and His mercies endure forever. May the blessings of the LORD overtake you and come upon you and His love surround you, for His glory. Have a blessed week. In Jesus Name.
Be a blessing and share this with someone who needs to hear this today.
Take Care x