Paul’s Gratitude for God’s Mercy

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to
serve him, even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy
on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith
and love that come from Christ Jesus.

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” and I am the
worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with
even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and
glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.