Who do we think we are?

My wife’s Bible study started in the book of Romans this week. Yesterday she said something in a way I had never really thought about before. She was talking about Paul’s life after his conversion, and she summarized that, “He became who he thought he already was.” Before his conversion he believed himself to be the most qualified and learned religious leader around. His conversion was a huge reality check.

Even after his conversion (Ac 9), Paul still knew he was a more qualified apostle than most (2 Cor 11:4-6), but he also believed himself to be the chief of sinners (1 Tim 1:15). He no longer placed any confidence in all he used to think made him great (Php 3:1-11). He now only looked forward to the task ahead (Php 3:13): pursuing Christlikeness (Php 3:12-21).

We have the benefit of the Bible and the knowledge that Paul ultimately did become the foremost man of God that he once believed himself to be. I think there is a lesson here we can all take from Paul. Are we the righteous man or woman God really wants us to be, or do we just think more highly of ourselves than we ought (Ro 12:3)?

I pray that we follow Paul as he follows Christ (1 Cor 11:1) and truly become the godly people that we think we already are.

His Slave to Righteousness

- Tyler Wess

For Further Study

Posted in: Devotions,Early DoF