Redeemed

“For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (NKJV)

Because we are all human, there are mistakes and failures along life’s road. We sometimes make poor choices that are not pleasing to our Creator. The Bible calls this sin. It’s a word that doesn’t sound pretty. It doesn’t sound pretty, because sin isn’t pretty. Mentioning sin–talking about it, is also becoming more and more unpopular in today’s politically correct society, and even in many churches. But this word is used over and over in God’s Word, because God has never, nor will He ever condone sin.

Through our faith in Jesus Christ, there is a process in which the unpleasant sounding word of “sin” can be replaced by one that gives comfort, assurance, hope, and peace. That word is “redemption.”

Webster’s Dictionary defines the word “redemption” as follows: “The act of redeeming; rescue; ransom; that which redeems; salvation.” Redemption is the process of being rescued or brought back to the safety of the fold. Redemption brings us to a place of rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

How wonderful to know that God loves us enough to rescue us time and time again when we fail Him. In human thinking, we might compare it to that of a parent who has gone through many difficult situations with a wayward or rebellious child. Any loving parent will freely welcome that son or daughter home. This is what God does for us. Jesus is our Shepherd. He cares for His sheep and He will always rescue those who have gone astray and return them to the safety of the fold.

How thankful I am to say that I have been redeemed and am not the person I used to be. Even more importantly, I am thankful that I am not yet who I will be, for God is not finished with me yet!

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for the gift of redemption through your Son, Jesus Christ. We are so thankful for Your presence as we walk through this life. You are everything we need. Please bless each person reading this message and bring hope and restoration where needed. Give peace and comfort in every situation that might arise in each of our lives. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.