Daily Devotions
No Regrets
Reading for December 16th: 2 Timothy 1-4
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7
No regrets.
To many of us, finishing our life with a bold statement like this seems like a lost dream. We've wasted so many opportunities and failed so many times.
Yet, we must remember that the one who penned these words also called himself a "blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent" (1 Timothy 1:13). He said he was the "foremost" of all sinners because of what he had done in his life (1 Timothy 1:15).
The apostle Paul threw believers in Christ into prison and did many other things to cause Christians to suffer. His hands were filled with blood. He actively supported the stoning of Stephen and other Christians were put to death, at least in part, by Paul's vote against them (Acts 7:58; 26:10).
Yet, this man could die at peace. How is that?
The reason is twofold:
- First, he trusted in grace: "the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 1:14).
- Second, when he received his second chance, he poured himself into God's purposes for his life.
If you are living with regrets, quit that and accept God's mercy right now! Don't get mired in self-doubt and self-pity. I know you don't feel worthy of it. You're not worthy. That's what makes grace, grace. Be humble enough to accept this gift from God.
Once you've accepted God's free gift, give your life as a gift in return, knowing you can now finish your race with joy and with no regrets (Romans 12:1-2).
Father God, help us to accept your mercy and use our second chance as motivation to live sacrificial lives for your sake.
