I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.”

(1 Tim. 1:16 NIV)

In discipling a young believer from Central Asian, I often heard tales of the immense patience she has received from the Lord. In her home country, she had often verbally abused a Christian woman when she spoke of Christ to her. Years later, the now young believer met this Christian woman in a different country and apologized. They were now able to experience the joys of a shared faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to Timothy of the LORD’s divine patience he had received. … I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life” (1 Tim. 1:16 NIV).  Paul shared a profoundly insightful thought—accepting that Jesus was using your life of self-righteousness to display His immense patience.

I, too, can lean into that same immense patience today. If Jesus could patiently await Paul’s conversion while His own children were being persecuted, He will also patiently accomplish His work within my own heart.

Thank you, Father, for reminding me of your gift of patience toward personal behaviors that need your touch of grace. May I not depend upon that patience instead of making needed changes as soon as I am aware of them!

Linda Lesniewski