Devotion 2/2, Our Redeemer

 

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense — Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.  1 John 2:1-2

Just one sinful event can be used by Satan to discourage and defeat us and hurt those we influence. We need to know that we have a Savior and a defender. This Savior, this Defender, paid the price to redeem us. He sent his Spirit to help us overcome sin’s power. He is our intercessor who will speak to the Father and claim that right to forgive us and make us holy and make us His!

We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true of everyone who believes, no matter who we are. Christ’s blood is sufficient to pay for the sins of the entire world. This verse is many times taken out of context and used to say that everyone is saved automatically, often referred to as “universal salvation”. This is false teaching and does not fall in line with the whole of Scripture. The Word of God teaches that people are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). Therefore, His blood is sufficient for all but only efficient for those who place their trust in Him. The gospel is offered to all people, not just some, but any and every one, no exclusions! What people do with the gift of salvation that God offers through Jesus is up to them.

Father, I’m embarrassed by my weakness and vulnerability to sin. Even in those moments of shame, I’m thankful that Jesus provided me the way back into your holy presence. Jesus, I thank you for coming to my rescue and my defense. I will not let Satan discourage me when I trip, stumble, and fall. Instead, I re-commit myself to live with your character and for your glory. In your name, Lord Jesus, my righteous defender, I pray. Amen.

I chose this song today, as I strive to live a life pleasing to God, to one day hear Him say “well done, good and faithful servant”. https://youtu.be/zLvwG78XYj4?feature=shared