“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (I Timothy 1:15-17 NIV)
Nothing will produce authentic praise and worship like humility. When we realize how undeserving we are, how far short we fall of being truly godly, then the recognition of God’s grace towards us naturally and spontaneously generates praise.
Paul was a notorious persecutor of the Church. Then he became a famous leader of those he used to persecute. Yet Paul never forgot who he really was—a sinner and a former enemy of the Lord. Thus, he could not keep from bursting into praise when he thought of his former life.
For those of us who grew up in a Christian home or became Christians many years ago, it is very easy to forget how lost we really were, and how dependent we are on God’s amazing grace to find ourselves where we are today.
Today, let us remember where we would be without the wonderful grace of the Lord. And as that reality sets in, may praise and thanksgiving pour forth from our hearts!
© Jim Musser 2012
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