Is our sin too much for God’s mercy?
Paul would answer with an emphatic, “no!” In yesterday’s verse, we saw that he referred to himself as the worst of sinners. Yet he, the worst of sinners, is saved!
Today’s verse shows us that the example of God’s mercy to Paul is an assurance to us that our sins are forgiven also. “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 Tim 1:16).
In other words, if Paul the persecutor can be saved, so can you. If Paul the blasphemer can be saved, so can you.
This is not an excuse to sin, but an encouragement that even the worst sinner can be saved.
Also, this is an encouragement to us who believe. We often struggle; we still sin, often in the same ways that we have sinned before. Notice it says, “His perfect patience.”
What amazing grace! His perfect patience means that, even when you stumble and fall as a believer, you still receive His mercy. He is patient with you in your doubts, questions and fears. He is patient with you when you are discouraged and you don’t feel like praying.
He is worthy of our praise. We see that in the next verse, which we will look at tomorrow, but you don’t need to wait until then. Lift your voice to Him today and thank Him for His perfect patience to you.
The best is yet to come 