“…Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the head. But for this very reason I received mercy, that Jesus Christ might first display all perseverance in me, as an example for those who will believe in him for eternal life” (1 Timothy 1:15,16).
Under the influence of the gospel of Christ, Saul of Tarsus became a completely different person. The change was not superficial or temporary; It was deep and lasting. And later, writing as Paul the apostle, he could offer himself as an example to prove how sinful a person can be and yet be saved by the gospel: “I received mercy, that first Jesus Christ might show all long-suffering in me, as an example to those who would believe in him for eternal life.” If the prosecutor’s allegation is that a truly evil person can never change, Paul is “Exhibit A” to the contrary. He is an encouraging example to anyone who has ever worried that this might be a hopeless case or a lost cause.
Most people, if they’re honest, know what it’s like to struggle with deeply ingrained character flaws. As we struggle to overcome these imperfections, we become frustrated. Over time, we may begin to doubt that real change is even possible. Sometimes we start thinking like this because we are influenced by someone the doctrine that man’s actions are not free Which says that we are already “determined” at birth – that is, we will always be who we are. At other times, we may suffer from Victim mentality. We see ourselves as victims of circumstances and influences that we cannot handle.
However, my suspicion is that most of the time our problem is quite obvious. Disappointment. Satan wages a bitter war against us; He comes back, comes back, and comes back again and again to try to wear us out. After a while, it feels like our purpose has been lost.
But the great hope of the gospel is that, as long as life lasts, none of us is a lost cause. Our defeat should not be final. Our failures should not be fatal. Real change for the better is always possible.
Whoever you are, my friend, believe this: Your wreck can be repaired. If God can turn a fire-breathing, murderous Pharisee into a great angel of grace, He can certainly help point you in the right direction. Your fate is not fixed, and you are not just a victim. You are a living being capable of great growth.
“When you think everything is lost, sometimes the greatest gain is ready to be yours” (Thomas A. Kempis).
Gary Henry – WordPoints.com AreYouaChristian.com
