The latest news of people returning to the job scene is that many of them aren’t qualified any more to hold down the job they held just a few years ago. Computers have come into their job, technologies have improved and things are done differently than before. So, people who did a job for many years are coming back in and aren’t qualified to hold down that job any longer.
Paul talks in I Timothy 1:12-14 of the same problem. He makes it clear that he wasn’t qualified to be counted faithful by God and appointed by God into His service. He then lists his past sins that he was guilty of.
I look at what Paul is saying and realize that I am not qualified to hold down the job of the Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Now, I have friends who are spotless. I have friends who could say that they’ve always been faithful and always done exactly what God’s will is, but I can’t say that. I have a spotted past. Just like Paul!
However, Paul says that the grace of God was poured out on him abundantly. I feel kinda like Paul. I needed an abundant supply of God’s grace. A little might not have done the job.
I do know this. My failings and rebellions against God have made me more understanding to those who do have a spotted past. I feel more compassion to the one who is wayward. I find it easier to walk in the shoes of those who are hurting. And while there are many people who would feel I am disqualified to serve in my position, I thank God that he considers me faithful, appointing me to his service. Just like Paul.
And that’s about it, in a nutshell.
