Today we will take a look at why redemption is so important. And as I wrap it up, we will look at how sweet redemption has been served.
Redemption (noun):
the action of regaining or gaining possession of something in exchange for payment, or clearing a debt.
Sweet Redemption In Our Everday Life
I remember many times in my life having the feeling of being redeemed. What I mean by that, and maybe you can relate, is when I had failed at something, but then solved the issue successfully. Also, there were times when in a competition where I was beaten by the opponent. But then the next time I was victorious. I redeemed myself!
There was one time, all the way back when I played in a baseball league called Connie Mack (late teenage years). Our league picked the All-Star team and I didn’t make the roster. Matter of fact, several coaches in the league were not happy with all who were picked for the All-Stars. So they formed a second All-Star team, and I was picked!
We went on to win the Regional which most people thought wasn’t possible. Though we did lose in the next round. But not only that, somehow I was chosen from the various All-star tournament teams to represent one of the two All-star teams for the State of Indiana – the North All-stars. I felt redeemed!
Your Redemption
Do you recall a time when you felt redeemed? Maybe it was a competition of some type or a sporting event. Or it could have been a work situation where you didn’t get recognition or you were passed over for a promotion, but then later recognized or promoted at a key time.
Or maybe you feel you have never received your redemption. You were overlooked, passed over, unnoticed, and/or not recognized. Like me I am sure you have felt, and maybe still remember and harbor, those moments and times that you had not been redeemed.
Redeemed by Jesus
God knows what we need. He designed and created us. He knit into us the need to be needed, to be recognized, and looked upon, noticed, and redeemed. Sweet redemption has been served.
Isaiah 44:22 ESV
I have blotted out your transgressions like a cloud and your sins like mist; return to me, for I have redeemed you.
Humankind has this ability to seek their own way (which leads to failure). God put a plan in place to redeem you and me. He knew you and I couldn’t do it on our own (put a name to your ‘it’).
Psalm 94:11 NIV
The Lord knows all human plans; he knows that they are futile.
Let’s Make a Practical Application of Redemption
When we fail, when we are in defeat, we fall short of our mark. That then brings on the feeling of wanting and needing redemption. But some have given up, not ever feeling they are redeemed. So let’s look at the bigger picture.
Being redeemed is bringing life to where death dwells.
And death dwells with those who are not Christians, and to even some who say they are Christians. You remember the quote (unknown):
Going to church (or doing religious stuff) doesn’t make you a Christian anymore than going to McDonalds makes you a french fry.
So some who say they are Christians still smell like death. I know, pretty graphic huh? But it is true. Some people have been defeated for so long that their goal is to just get through the day. Jesus is not real to them. They do not have an everyday-walking-around-kind-of-life with Jesus. Some know of Him, but they don’t know Him.
There are even some who get wound up at a Church/Worship service and are on Cloud 9. But return to mediocre on Monday.
Other people (Mom, Dad, siblings, husband, wife, loved ones, Pastors, etc.) canNOT give, do not have the capacity or ability to give, nor do they have the power to give, what YOU need to be redeemed. They cannot give you life, wholeness, completeness, eternal life, or anything else. Not now. And not eternally. Not ever.
Only Jesus
Ephesians 1:7 AMP
In Him we have redemption [that is, our deliverance and salvation] through His blood, [which paid the penalty for our sin and resulted in] the forgiveness and complete pardon of our sin, in accordance with the riches of His grace
Challenge of the Week:
Realistically there will be a plethora of events in our life. There are many of those events in which we will never receive redemption. So set your mind on things from above. Don’t dwell on the past. Each day this week think of one thing in which Jesus has redeemed you from in your life. Share that with one other person. Even if you have to repeat the same thing each day for a week, then do it. Sweet redemption has been served. So be it!
Before closing, I have a thankful praise report:
Top 100 Devotionals In Feedspot
My blog site ranking has broken the top 100 best devotional blog post sites according to Feedspot blog rankings. Matter of fact, my site has moved from 65 to 63 just this past week. You can check Feedspot out here regarding the rankings – Top 100 Devo Blogs. As you read and share, this helps boost my site’s rankings and makes it more searchable for others to find, read, and be encouraged. Thank you for your support in helping get the word out.
