2. THE GOD WHO ‘POURS OUT’ IN ABUNDANCE

4. I had pedigree and credentials: “…a legitimate birth, circumcised on the eighth day; an Israelite from the elite tribe of Benjamin, [a Hebrew of Hebrews]; a strict and devout adherent to God’s law; a fiery defender of the purity of my religion…a meticulous observer of everything set down in God’s law Book.” (Philippians 3:5-6, The Message).

5. Yet in spite of such achievement, Paul notes, I no longer value achievement; in fact, I’ve thrown all my merit badges away (Philippians 3:7-8)! Why? Because I’ve discovered that true merit is only found in Christ and Christ alone. Everything else frankly, “…I consider…garbage” (Philippians 3:8).

6. Why sure, I looked like a Cub Scout on the outside, Paul infers, but I was really “a blasphemer…a persecutor…an d a violent man…” on the inside. (I Timothy 1:13).

7. Learn To Tell The Truth To Yourself.

8. “…the heart is deceitful above all things, and…is exceedingly perverse and corrupt and severely…sick! Who can know it [perceive, understand…his own heart and mind]? (Jeremiah 17:9, The Amplified Bible).

10. “When I kept silent [covering up my sin], my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long…my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. (Psalm 32:3-4).

11. Hear From God, Receiving God’s Massive Merit And Grace.

12. “…the grace (the unmerited favor and blessing) of our Lord … flowed out superabundantly and beyond measure for me, accompanied by faith and love that are […realized] in Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 1:14, The Amplified Bible).

14. “What are you doing here…” (1 Kings 19:9); what are you doing in your cave – in your hiding place of pride or shame?

15. Spread The Only Trustworthy Truth: The Patience And Transforming Power Of God.

16. “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came…to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. For that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me…Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life…” (1 Timothy 1:15-16)

17. “The Lord…the compassionate and gracious God -- [is] slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness -- maintaining love to thousands -- and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.” (Exodus 34:6-7).