1 Corinthians 15:9-11
9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not found vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 11 Whether then it be I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.
The apostle Paul had a certain mindset that Christians are wise to emulate (1 Cor. 11:1). In him, we recognize an attitude of:
Humility. Pride cannot hide in the heart of a believer who understands divine mercy. Paul spread the gospel because he believed the grace that was sufficient to save a sinner like him was adequate for anyone.
Indebtedness. The apostle never lost sight of how far the Father’s grace had brought him. Paul frequently reminded followers of his role in persecuting the church (1 Tim. 1:13), and his gratitude for salvation from that former life never waned. The book of Acts records the almost constant turmoil and heartache of his travels, and yet he continued to praise the Lord for the privilege of serving.
Dependence. To describe the source of his strength, Paul used these words: “By the grace of God I am what I am” (1 Cor. 15:10). He knew what it was like to depend upon one’s own goodness and work to be religious—and he wanted no part of it. Paul desired more of Jesus Christ and none of himself (Phil. 3:8).
Conviction. At the end of his life, Paul was as confident as ever that God was real, in charge, and worthy of all honor, glory, and praise (2 Tim. 4:6-8).
Do you see these attitudes in yourself? If not, borrow a page from the apostle Paul’s “playbook.” Praise the Lord for all that He has done for you, and then get busy working—in His strength—for His kingdom. Do not allow His grace to be poured out on your life in vain (1 Cor. 15:10).
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