You Can’t Do This on Your Own
Read 1 Timothy 1:5
Today’s Truth
Paul reminded Timothy that he must depend on God to live the Christian life. Advancing God’s work comes through faith — our total dependence on God (1 Timothy 1:5).
Paul knew better than anyone where relying on good intentions instead of God could take a person. Paul’s religiousness led him down a path of persecuting Christians, but Jesus showed Paul mercy (1 Timothy 1:12-13). Paul knew he had done much to disappoint God, but God’s grace set Paul free from his past.
Discussion Questions
- How have you seen God’s mercy in your life?
- What spiritual lessons can you learn from sheep and shepherds in Psalm 23?
Application
Jesus came to save people like Paul (1 Timothy 1:15-16). So Paul encouraged Timothy to fight the spiritual battle to which God had called him, but to remember he needed to trust in God and in His Word to do so (1 Timothy 1:18).
The most important thing Paul passes on to Timothy isn’t a strategy or saying, but a reminder that none of us can live the Jesus life apart from God’s mercy. Fortunately for all of us, God’s mercy is available for all who claim it (Romans 10:9-10).
