1 Timothy 1:18-20 The Message (MSG)
As believers, when we are willing to take an honest look at our lives, it is not difficult to see the patience and mercy of Almighty God working to bring us into a greater depth of love. We are on a quest to appropriate and reveal the love of God. Did you know human difficulties can serve as an avenue for God to impart his love to us and reveal love through us? It’s true, God is wanting to be revealed to the world through us and in the midst of difficulties we can represent the Spirit of holy Love or the selfish works of the flesh (sinful humanity). Difficulties bring opportunities for our transformation. Don’t hate difficulties. Grab your faith in God’s love and allow any difficulty you face to exalt Christ in you.
The Apostle Paul shares his love with Timothy in our passage today. He reminds Timothy about the need to keep a grip on his faith and his flesh. Why is that so important? Because others who are entertaining an understanding of God are watching your life to see how you handle things. After all, God came into the world to save sinners and to transform every willing heart into a greater representative of our holy Father.
1 Timothy 1:18-20
15-19 Here’s a word you can take to heart and depend on: Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. I’m proof—Public Sinner Number One—of someone who could never have made it apart from sheer mercy. And now he shows me off—evidence of his endless patience—to those who are right on the edge of trusting him forever.
Deep honor and bright glory
to the King of All Time—
One God, Immortal, Invisible,
ever and always. Oh, yes!
I’m passing this work on to you, my son Timothy. The prophetic word that was directed to you prepared us for this. All those prayers are coming together now so you will do this well, fearless in your struggle, keeping a firm grip on your faith and on yourself. After all, this is a fight we’re in.
19-20 There are some, you know, who by relaxing their grip and thinking anything goes have made a thorough mess of their faith.
Prayer: Father, help me to keep a faithful grip on your love as I live out each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.