No Reputation

​This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him
​to life everlasting. 1Ti 1:15-16

In these verses Paul describes what Jesus came into the world to do, and who he was before Christ redeemed him. He had a keen ability to give a clear picture-with few words.

Paul gave no excuses, blamed no one for his blindness, his wretched conduct as Saul of Tarsus, in his ignorance, unbelief, and persecuting rage; of being a blasphemer, and a relentless persecutor of Christ's people, of his injurious insolent, and overbearing pride. He describes himself as the chief of sinners. 

It is only when we truly see God and His gaze on us pierces our souls, that we know ourselves, and see who we really are, and repent in dust and ashes. When someone really gets saved, everyone will know it, there will be a marked change, a turn-around in their life. The man or woman who truly repents, and walks with God, may make mistakes, and fail at times, but like Jacob-will repent, get back up and keep walking with God. This will not guarantee you a life of happiness, many friends, pleasure and ease. This will be brought out below.

Paul made an honest, clear picture of himself-so when even the most vile, hopeless abandoned sinner read and considered his case-they would take heart, that there was room for them at the foot of the Cross. He is an example of mercy, a specimen of what Christ can do, even for the worst of sinners. If Jesus Christ, with whom there can be no respect of persons, saved Saul of Tarsus, no sinner need despair.
​
If there was hope and salvation for Paul, there is hope for you and I.
Lorna Couillard
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Note: There's been some who have said to me "You are arrogant". I've been cursed, mocked, and insulted many times over the years. I'd ask-How do you like to be treated?
I'm a quiet, "mind my own business" kind of person, and blunt in my way of speaking-somewhat like Paul (I don't claim to be in his rank or category), and have had experiences in my life that have molded me into what I am now (robbed 3 times). In this world you learn to become strong, and able to take the blows of life-or let the world destroy you. My armor, is always on. But, I choose the verses above, to  describe who I am. I have no reputation to try to uphold, no character to polish-I am a redeemed sinner, who has been called by God to do some things-that I will admit-I have no strength or ability to do in my flesh-it is God in me, that moves me in this work. I've made mistakes, failed at times, but gotten back up, and keep going. It is the Spirit of God, that moves me in what I am doing, in spite of my flaws. The blog below gives a description of who I was before Jesus redeemed me, and saved me, and what Christ has done in me, for His glory.
https://www.twosparrowsministry.org/home/used-goods

Update -7/16/22
It doesn't take long after I post new material, to see and hear reactions; some good, some bad.
Whatever people's opinions, I leave it in God's hands. To the enemies- I don't care what you may think of me. The only persons opinion that matters to me, is the Lord Jesus Christ. 
The false accusations, the condemnations, the rumors/gossip, slander gets taken to the throne of God. I talk to Him about it, and leave it there. If anyone is really interested in me as a person, or cares to know the truth about the stories told of me-I'll tell you the truth. If your not interested, that's fine. I can live my life in peace, either way.​

During Paul's service and missionary journey's, he encountered many dangerous, treacherous problems, many times he spoke of his persecutions, the tortures he endured, and the false brethren and enemies he suffered from. But along the way he came to the place where he was unmovable in his faith, and his walk with God.

The Four Marks of the Immovable Man
“And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus,
to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” Act 20:22-24

Here, in his own words, is the secret of Paul’s prevailing perseverance. As we look over his confession, four distinguishing characteristics stand out — charting for each one of us today the pathway through our own difficult challenges.

By following Paul’s example, we also can become men and women who are immovable from our sure foundations, and unstoppable in our eternal quest.

Paul’s example shows us four marks of the Immovable Man…
#1 – He had conviction of Spirit — “I go bound in the spirit,” he said. The word means to be irrevocably resolved in commitment to the present course of action. There is a finality to the conviction Paul possessed, like a man “bound in chains” from which there is no escape offered…nor desired. Any appeal made to Paul by his friends, urging him to take it easy, fell powerless to the ground. Something far more powerful held him firm to his course of action.
#2 – He had courage of Heart – “not knowing what will happen to me there, except that bonds and afflictions await me.” It takes a man or woman of immeasurable courage to walk headlong into open hostility. Those who seek a life of ease will never reach the heights of glory gained by those who press upward against great oppositions.
#3 – He had composure of Mind — “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself.” Here we see the true magnificence of a selfless man. Paul was not looking for a chance to advance his career, bulk up his portfolio, sweep the competition, nor leave his mark in the Vaulted Halls of Man’s Celebrated Giants. Something higher and far more noble had captured his imagination. He had set his thoughts upon heaven, and the honor of the name of Jesus. And, though dismissed by the world as a fool with a misspent life, he is now cheered in the realms of glory as the Great Apostle of Grace.
#4 – He has constancy of Purpose — “that I may finish my race with joy.” And what a race he ran! Through valleys and over hills; in the thick of the woods, and out in the open meadows; upon rocky terrain, and across the hot desert sands — he ran with faith, and finished with perseverance. Such is the internal power of a prevailing purpose in life. I once read that a man can stand almost anything except a succession of ordinary days.

My friend, in what ways can you benefit by Paul’s example as you face your own challenges in today’s world? How might his words find a place in your life, and embolden you to rise in a new resolve of faithfulness — even if its against all odds? Rylisms

Comment: Reading this down through the ages of time, I will put my lot in with Paul, and go wherever Christ leads me-and burn the bridges behind me.
Lorna