Tag Archives: Romans 5:1-11

The Desire Of My Heart??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 20 No. 05

20 Monday Feb 2023

Posted by in A Form of godliness?, Abiding In Jesus, Delight of my heart, Faithfulness, Father's Way!, God Knows His Own, God of all comfort!, God's Faithfulness, God's Glory, God's glory NOT mine!, Holy Living

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The Desire Of My Heart??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 20 No. 05

I have a simple word to share with you today.  I pray that God will touch your heart and mine and draw us close to Himself that we might be a reflection of HIS glory and not our own!

“O give thanks unto the LORD;

call upon his name:

make known his deeds

among the people.

2 Sing unto him,

sing psalms unto him:

talk ye of all

his wondrous works.

3 Glory ye

in his holy name:

let the heart of them rejoice

that seek the LORD.

4 Seek the LORD,

and his strength:

seek his face evermore.”  Psalm 105:1-4

The Psalms always encourage my heart and reading, rehearsing, and memorizing them is worthy of our time and effort, for they remind us continually of the faithfulness of our God and our need for HIS presence, grace, power, and love.  Jesus also reminded us that it is God’s glory we are to pursue not our own–oh, how far our culture has come–and usually in the opposite direction (due in great part to the media–social, broadcast, movies, and music!)!

“Jesus answered them, and said,

My doctrine is not mine,

but his that sent me.

17 If any man will do his will,

he shall know of the doctrine,

whether it be of God,

or whether I speak of myself.

18 He that speaketh of himself

seeketh his own glory:

but he that seeketh his glory that sent him,

the same is true,

and no unrighteousness is in him.”   John 7:16-18

Yet, where do we find ‘righteousness’?  Only in Jesus, through the blood that cleanses us “from all sin”!  Oh, thank you Jesus for the price that you paid for me, that I might have your righteousness, peace, and love.  It’s so hard to not just give you pages of scriptural evidence of HIS power and provision, but I pray that God will lead you to Himself through HIS Word, and one of the most powerful pictures of what God does in us when we come to Jesus is found in Paul’s second letter to the church at Corinth!  Its context is amazing, and I pray that it will encourage your heart.

“Therefore if any man be in Christ,

he is a new creature:

old things are passed away;

behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God,

who hath reconciled us to himself

by Jesus Christ,

and hath given to us the ministry

of reconciliation;

19 To wit,

that God was in Christ,

reconciling the world unto himself,

not imputing their trespasses

unto them;

and hath committed unto us

the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ,

as though God did beseech you by us:

we pray you in Christ’s stead,

be ye reconciled to God.

21 For he hath made him

to be sin for us,

who knew no sin;

that we might be made

the righteousness of God

in him.”  2 Corinthians 5:17-21

Have you received the blood-bought righteousness of Jesus?  He came that we might “have life…more abundantly…”, all because “God so loved…” you and me!  Again Paul makes this so clear in his letter to the Roman believers.

“Therefore being justified by faith,

we have peace with God

through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access

by faith

into this grace

wherein we stand,

and rejoice

in hope of the glory of God.…

….5 And hope maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.

6 For when we were yet without strength,

in due time

Christ died for the ungodly…

…. 8 But God commendeth his love

toward us,

in that,

while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

being now justified by his blood,

we shall be saved from wrath

through him.

10 For if, when we were enemies,

we were reconciled to God

by the death of his Son,

much more, being reconciled,

we shall be saved by his life.

11 And not only so,

but we also joy in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

by whom we have

now received the atonement.”                        Portions of Romans 5:1-11

Even as Paul declared in 1 Corinthians 15, that he could only share that which he had received–so it is for every genuine believer in Jesus–it’s all of God, and we are to praise Him, for HIS amazing gifts–

HIS glory–

HIS grace–

HIS love–

HIS peace–

HIS atoning sacrifice–

HIS joy–

HIS Holy Spirit–

HIS reconciliation–

How could we take HIS glory for ourselves?  I would like to leave you with a portion of one of my favorite Psalms, to ponder on and draw strength, wisdom, grace, and encouragement from, that we will be able to stand fast in this “evil day”, being a reflection of the glory of our God–not self!

“Trust in the LORD,

and do good;

so shalt thou dwell in the land,

and verily thou shalt be fed.

4 Delight thyself also in the LORD;

and he shall give thee the desires

of thine heart.

5 Commit thy way unto the LORD;

trust also in him;

and he shall bring it to pass.

6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness

as the light,

and thy judgment

as the noonday.

7 Rest in the LORD,

and wait patiently for him:

fret not thyself

because of him who prospereth

in his way,

because of the man who bringeth

wicked devices to pass.

8 Cease from anger,

and forsake wrath:

fret not thyself in any wise

to do evil.”  Psalm 37:3-8

May your day be filled with the “joy of the Lord” and His sweet presence, glory, and grace; for if HE is my delight, His will and purposes will be a delight to me and the desire of my heart will be to walk with HIM today…and today…and today!!!

Amen and Amen!!!

The Real Reason For Christmas??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 22

28 Monday Nov 2022

Posted by in Choosing Jesus or The World?, Christmas, Christmas IS Jesus, Christmas IS?, Jesus Knows YOUR Storm, Jesus Never Fails, Jesus said I could come!, Jesus Saves!, The Real Reason For Christmas!

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 22 The Real Reason For Christmas???

I heard a most encouraging message on part of Romans chapter 1 from our faithful pastor this morning.  It set me to thinking of how we often miss the connection of all of scripture, so I thought I’d share a bit of a spin on what most of us think about when we consider the reason for Christmas; it may be a connection that you have never considered, and I pray that it will give you some food for thought.  Most of all I hope it helps us all see Jesus, the “light of the world”, in all of our personal celebrations; and that if you’ve never called on HIM to save you, today will be that day!!!

First of all, let’s consider the message that the angel brought to Joseph as he considered what to do about the pregnant Mary, with whom ‘he’ had not had relations.

“But while he thought on these things,

behold, the angel of the Lord appeared

unto him in a dream, saying,

Joseph, thou son of David,

fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife:

for that which is conceived in her

is of the Holy Ghost.

21 And she shall bring forth a son,

and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people

from their sins.

22 Now all this was done,

that it might be fulfilled which was spoken

of the Lord by the prophet, saying,

23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child,

and shall bring forth a son,

and they shall call his name

Emmanuel,

which being interpreted is,

God with us.”  Matthew 1:20-23

“God with us”–Jesus IS God with us!  So Why do we need “God with us”?  Because we (humanity in Adam and Eve, and YES, I believe in the Genesis account of creation; for to put it bluntly, if there was no Adam or Eve, there was no garden, there was no sin, and we wouldn’t need a redeemer–to “save us from our sin”!) sinned, yet God had already provided for our sin before we fell for ‘The Lie’ (See Genesis 3).  That is just beyond my comprehension, for I don’t like ‘messes’ and it is beyond amazing to me, that God knew we would make a ‘mess’, yet HE created us anyway; knowing it would cost Jesus His life’s blood.  Romans makes it all clear!

“For when we were yet without strength,

in due time

Christ died for the ungodly.

7 For scarcely for a righteous man

will one die:

yet peradventure for a good man

some would even dare to die.

8 But God commendeth his love toward us,

in that, while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

being now justified by his blood,

we shall be saved from wrath through him.

10 For if, when we were enemies,

we were reconciled to God

by the death of his Son,

much more,

being reconciled,

we shall be saved by his life.

11 And not only so,

but we also joy in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

by whom we have now received

the atonement.”  Romans 5:6-11

Peter also reminds us that God had this plan in mind before we needed it.

“Forasmuch as ye know that

ye were not redeemed with corruptible things,

as silver and gold,

from your vain conversation

received by tradition from your fathers;

19 But with the precious blood of Christ,

as of a lamb without blemish

and without spot:

20 Who verily was foreordained

before the foundation of the world,

but was manifest in these last times

for you,

21 Who by him do believe in God,

that raised him up from the dead,

and gave him glory;

that your faith and hope

might be in God.

22 Seeing ye have purified your souls

in obeying the truth through the Spirit

unto unfeigned love of the brethren,

see that ye love one another

with a pure heart fervently:

23 Being born again,

not of corruptible seed,

but of incorruptible,

by the word of God,

which liveth

and abideth for ever.”  1 Peter 1:18-23

Just FYI, this ‘living word of God’ IS Jesus–the living Word (See John 1:1-5), as well as the breath of the written Word!  How does this all tie into Romans?  To put it simply, “all scripture is inspired by God” (See 2 Timothy 2:15 & 3:16-17) so, let’s look at a few passages from the first three chapters of Romans.

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:

for it is the power of God

unto salvation

to every one that believeth;

to the Jew first,

and also to the Greek.

17 For therein is the righteousness of God

revealed from faith to faith:

as it is written,

The just shall live by faith.

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven

against all ungodliness

and unrighteousness of men,

who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

19 Because that which may be known of God

is manifest in them;

for God hath shewed it unto them.

20 For the invisible things of him

from the creation of the world

are clearly seen,

being understood

by the things that are made,

even his eternal power

and Godhead;

so that they are without excuse:

21 Because that,

when they knew God,

they glorified him not as God,

neither were thankful;

but became vain in their imaginations,

and their foolish heart was darkened.”                    Romans 1:16-21

Paul tells us that “the gospel of Christ” IS the “power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth”, and that is truly good–good news! The good news is “the righteousness of God revealed” to us–the same good news that Jesus gave to Nicodemus in John 3–that we must be born again, and when we are, Jesus will give us eternal life–real abundant life now–and life with God–Father, Son, and Holy Spirit –in heaven! Paul describes the first group we need to consider, the UNrighteous, who are “without excuse”.  If you would, those who are blatantly, deliberately rejecting God, His ways, and His Word–refusing to worship HIM as GOD!

Now, let’s move on to Romans chapter 2, which describes another group of people.

“Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man,

whosoever thou art that judgest:

for wherein thou judgest another,

thou condemnest thyself;

for thou that judgest

doest the same things.

2 But we are sure that the judgment of God

is according to truth

against them which commit such things.

3 And thinkest thou this, O man,

that judgest them which do such things,

and doest the same,

that thou shalt escape

the judgment of God?

4 Or despisest thou the riches

of his goodness

and forbearance

and longsuffering;

not knowing that the goodness of God

leadeth thee to repentance?

5 But after thy hardness

and impenitent heart

treasurest up unto thyself wrath

against the day of wrath

and revelation of the righteous

judgment of God;

6 Who will render to every man

according to his deeds…

…11 For there is no respect of persons with God.

12 For as many as have sinned

without law

shall also perish without law:

and as many as have sinned

in the law

shall be judged by the law;”  Romans 2:1-6 & 11

“And whosoever was not found

written in the book of life

was cast into the lake of fire.”  Revelation 20:15

Regardless of what we may think of ourselves, Paul says that we cannot make our own selves righteous; if we measure ourselves by our own judgement, it will not make wrong right or right wrong!  God will “render to every man according to his deeds”, and it doesn’t matter what I “say”, for what I ‘do’ will reflect what I truly believe.  Jesus made that clear in Matthew chapter 7, that just “saying so, doesn’t make it so”!  Are you one who is counting on your own SELFrighteousness?  Or have you been to the cross for the cleansing blood of Jesus’ to save you?

“…be ye reconciled to God.

21 For he hath made him

to be sin for us,

who knew no sin;

that we might be made

the righteousness of God

in him.”  2 Corinthians 5:20b-21

Just as we saw in Romans 5 above, only Jesus can save us and cleanse us from our sin and pay our sin debt, I hope that our last passage will bring it all together for you.  For it doesn’t matter if you are one of the “Unrighteous”, or the “SELFrighteous”, for we are all what God calls us in Romans chapter 3– “NONErighteous”!

“For all have sinned,

and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23

“For the wages of sin

is death;

but the gift of God

is eternal life

through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

This is the message of the first part of Romans chapter 3. (I encourage you to spend some time this week reading and thinking about Romans 1-3, and 5 if you can make the time!)

“What advantage then hath the Jew?

or what profit is there of circumcision?

2 Much every way:

chiefly, because that unto them

were committed the oracles of God.

3 For what if some did not believe?

shall their unbelief make the faith of God

without effect?

4 God forbid:

yea, let God be true,

but every man a liar;

as it is written,

That thou mightest be justified

in thy sayings,

and mightest overcome

when thou art judged.

5 But if our unrighteousness

commend the righteousness of God,

what shall we say?

Is God unrighteous

who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man)

6 God forbid:

for then how shall God judge the world?

7 For if the truth of God

hath more abounded through my lie

unto his glory;

why yet am I also judged as a sinner?

8 And not rather,

(as we be slanderously reported,

and as some affirm that we say,)

Let us do evil,

that good may come?

whose damnation is just.

9 What then?

are we better than they?

No, in no wise:

for we have before proved

both Jews and Gentiles,

that they are all under sin;

10 As it is written,

There is none righteous,

no, not one:

11 There is none that understandeth,

there is none that seeketh after God.

12 They are all gone out of the way,

they are together become unprofitable;

there is none that doeth good,

no, not one.”  Romans 3:1-12

My question for us today is, “Which group are you in?”  The UNrighteous, the SELFrighteous, or the NONErighteous?   For until we see ourselves as one of the “NONErighteous”, or a sinner, we have no need for a Savior/Redeemer who saves and forgives sin!

“Giving thanks unto the Father,

which hath made us meet to be partakers

of the inheritance of the saints in light:

13 Who hath delivered us

from the power of darkness,

and hath translated us

into the kingdom of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

even the forgiveness

of sins:” Colossians 1:12-14

Finally, God paints another amazing picture for us in chapter 5, so let’s take time to ponder these things and be truly ready to celebrate CHRISTmas!

“Therefore

being justified by faith,

we have peace with God

through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access

by faith

into this grace wherein

we stand,

and rejoice

in hope of the glory of God.

3 And not only so,

but we glory in tribulations also:

knowing that tribulation

worketh patience;

4 And patience,

experience;

and experience,

hope:

5 And hope

maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.

6 For when we were yet without strength,

in due time

Christ died for the ungodly.

7 For scarcely for a righteous man

will one die:

yet peradventure for a good man

some would even dare to die.

8 But God commendeth his love toward us,

in that,

while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

being now justified by his blood,

we shall be saved from wrath

through him.

10 For if, when we were enemies,

we were reconciled to God

by the death of his Son,

much more,

being reconciled,

we shall be saved by his life.

11 And not only so,

but we also joy in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

by whom we have now received

the atonement.”  Romans 5:1-11

This is the reason that Jesus came and took on flesh, the reason that HE became Emmanuel–God with us!  He came to forgive us for our sin, to save us and give us eternal life; so we don’t have to be held accountable to pay for our own sin in Hell.  What will you do with the greatest gift of all this Christmas season?  Will you ignore Him, deliberately reject Him, put Him off, or bow before Him seeking His forgiveness and the new life HE can and will impart to all who come to Him in repentance of sin, and faith in HIS substitutionary, atoning, sacrifice?  And for we who already know HIM, may we commit ourselves afresh and anew to be more loving, obedient, and devoted children to our soon-coming KING, and as Paul so aptly declared, being a ‘bond-servant’ to Jesus Christ our KING!  From a Manger to a Throne!  Have you crowned HIM KING of your life?  May it ever be so!!!

Amen and Amen!!!

Real Peace??? A Word from THE WORD!!!

08 Thursday Sep 2022

Posted by in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Advice for the journey, Holy Spirit, Jesus Never Fails, Jesus Saves!, Know Whom I Believe, Knowing GOD, Knowing God's Word, Peace, Peace Of The Rock, Peace that passeth ALL understanding

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Real Peace???  A Word from THE WORD!!!  #35

‘Real Peace’, what is it?  That’s a good question, for many have fought battles trying to achieve peace.

Peace:  …. the normal, nonwarring condition of a nation, group of nations, or the world…. a state of harmony between people or groups, especially in personal relations…. often considered simply the absence of strife!

I think there is a greater idea of peace that the world most often misses, and often times even Bible believing Christians miss the real idea and meaning of ‘peace’!  So, I’d like us to spend just a bit of time today pursuing the biblical definition of peace, and the first thing that comes to my mind is the ultimate idea of biblical peace.

“Be careful

for nothing;

but in every thing

by prayer

and supplication

with thanksgiving

let your requests be made known

unto God.

7 And the peace of God,

which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts

and minds

through Christ Jesus.”   Philippians 4:6-7

Oh, the power of “the peace of God”; it is the supply, the sustenance, the surety of every believer who will rely upon it instead of the ‘peace of the world’—a flimsy, ever-changing pursuit that at best, is short-lived and unreliable, for it’s based on the ideas, pursuits, and efforts of mankind!  Whereas “the peace of God” is a rock-solid assurance that we can stand fast in God’s promises!

“Let your conversation

be without covetousness;

and be content

with such things as ye have:

for he hath said,

I will never leave thee,

nor forsake thee.

6 So that we may boldly say,

The Lord is my helper,

and I will not fear

what man shall do unto me.”   Hebrews 13:5-6

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace,

whose mind is stayed on thee:

because he trusteth

in thee.”  Isaiah 26:3

The main question though, is, where/how do we get this great peace?  Well, there is only one place where we can find this amazing peace (and grace—by grace), and that is IN JESUS.  Paul gives us the most amazing discourse on this, and while it is a lengthy passage, I think it well worth our time to consider it, for it is the premise upon which all we’ve said so far rests.

“Therefore being justified by faith,

we have peace with God

through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access

by faith

into this grace wherein we stand,

and rejoice in hope

of the glory of God.

3 And not only so,

but we glory in tribulations also:

knowing that tribulation

worketh patience;

4 And patience,

experience;

and experience,

hope:

5 And hope

maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.

6 For when we were yet without strength,

in due time

Christ died for the ungodly.

7 For scarcely for a righteous man

will one die:

yet peradventure for a good man

some would even dare to die.

8 But God

commendeth his love toward us,

in that, while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

being now justified

by his blood,

we shall be saved

from wrath through him.

10 For if, when we were enemies,

we were reconciled to God

by the death of his Son,

much more, being reconciled,

we shall be saved by his life.

11 And not only so,

but we also joy in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

by whom we have now received

the atonement.”  Romans 5:1-11

All this, because God loves us—did before HE created us, did after HE created us—did when we sinned—did when HE sent Jesus, The Son to be our redemption, which bought our “peace with God” for all who will believe and receive the forgiveness of sin that Jesus purchased at Calvary, so that “whosoever believeth in HIM” can have life, hope, and this very peace that Paul describes—no longer enemies of God—but HIS blessed children!!!  Hallelujah!!!  Amen!!!

Because of what HE did for us, we can have this peace that “passeth all understanding”!  The peace that overrules fear and suffering because we know that our God reigns, and is bringing us to glory with HIM!  It is what our faith camps on, Jesus’ own promise that Paul described above, in HIS own words!

“These things have I spoken unto you,

being yet present with you.

26 But the Comforter,

which is the Holy Ghost,

whom the Father will send in my name,

he shall teach you all things,

and bring all things to your remembrance,

whatsoever I have said unto you.

27 Peace I leave with you,

my peace I give unto you:

not as the world giveth,

give I unto you.

Let not your heart be troubled,

neither let it be afraid.”  John 14:25-27

Oh, how amazingly grateful I am that with HIS peace, comes “the love of God”, and for Paul ‘s reminder that The Holy Spirit plants it within us, a love that is ever at work accomplishing God’s purpose and glory in us, so that we have peace not fear (and living in such fear-evoking days we need reminding!), and the world sees a love they don’t understand—a testimony of Jesus’ amazing, saving grace!!

“There is no fear

in love;

but perfect love

casteth out fear:

because fear hath torment.

He that feareth

is not made perfect in love.”  1 John 4:18

Even in some of Jesus’ last words to His disciple (and to us) He reminded us that we have peace, HIS peace, in the midst of trials, troubles and tribulations—all because HE has “overcome the world”!

“These things I have spoken unto you,

that in me ye might have peace.

In the world ye shall have tribulation:

but be of good cheer;

I have overcome the world.”  John 16:33

Hold on to The One who IS our peace!  In HIM we win!

“And a voice came out of the throne, saying,

Praise our God,

all ye his servants,

and ye that fear him,

both small and great.

6 And I heard

as it were the voice of a great multitude,

and as the voice of many waters,

and as the voice of mighty thunderings,

saying,

Alleluia:

for the Lord God omnipotent

reigneth.”  Revelation 19:5-6

And on that all I can say is, even so Lord Jesus come quickly!!!

Yet if you don’t have this peace of God, you can have it by the repentance of your sin—your personal sin—and believing in the sacrifice that Jesus made for it (the substitutionary, atoning, sacrifice)—that He was crucified for your sin and mine, that He was buried, and that HE arose from the dead for you and me, victorious over sin, death, and hell!  He is inviting you today!

“Behold,

I stand at the door,

and knock:

if any man hear my voice,

and open the door,

I will come in to him,

and will sup with him,

and he with me.”  Revelation 3:20

Amen and Amen!!!

A Comfort In The Storm??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #31

24 Wednesday Aug 2022

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Comfort, Confidence, Contentedness, Contentment, Courage, Encouragement, HOPE

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A Comfort In The Storm???  A Word from THE WORD!!!  #31

If you read Monday’s post, I mentioned my friend who was nigh unto death; well, she has gone into the presence of our precious Lord Jesus, and while my tears are still flowing for my loss, my heart rejoices, and the peace of Jesus overwhelms my soul to know that my dear, dear friend is now whole and free from pain and struggles.  So, I’d like to share a bit of scripture to help those of you out there with struggles and sorrow this morning, for it is God’s Word and the truth of it that pervades my life and brings the comfort in sorrow that only God can give.

“Blessed be God,

even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

the Father of mercies,

and the God of all comfort;

4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,

that we may be able to comfort them

which are in any trouble,

by the comfort wherewith

we ourselves are comforted of God.

5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us,

so our consolation

also aboundeth by Christ.”  2 Corinthians 1:3-5

The Psalms are replete with comforting words that sooth the weary, troubled soul; and I am so grateful that tears aren’t wasted energy, but a language that God understands completely!

“The LORD hath done great things for us;

whereof we are glad.

4 Turn again our captivity, O LORD,

as the streams in the south.

5 They that sow in tears

shall reap in joy.

6 He that goeth forth and weepeth,

bearing precious seed,

shall doubtless come again

with rejoicing,

bringing his sheaves with him.”  Psalm 126:3-6

“Sing unto the LORD,

O ye saints of his,

and give thanks

at the remembrance of his holiness.

5 For his anger endureth but a moment;

in his favour is life:

weeping may endure for a night,

but joy cometh in the morning.”  Psalm 30:4-5

Tears are their own language—there are tears of personal sorrow over a loss to death—tears of regret over sin and failure in our life—tears of loss over the absence of people, places or even things—there are tears of exhaustion, frustration or even fear from the puzzlements of life—yet God sees, hears and knows our heartache and sends HIS comfort if we will but receive it, in Jesus!  Praise His dear name for the comfort and joy that HE brings to our hearts in the midst of our greatest trials, tests, and encounters of life!  How? Because of the gift of salvation that Jesus purchased at Calvary!

“Therefore being justified by faith,

we have peace with God

through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access

by faith

into this grace

wherein we stand,

and rejoice in hope

of the glory of God.

3 And not only so,

but we glory in tribulations also:

knowing that tribulation

worketh patience;

4 And patience,

experience;

and experience,

hope:

5 And hope

maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.

6 For when we were yet without strength,

in due time Christ died

for the ungodly.

7 For scarcely for a righteous man

will one die:

yet peradventure for a good man

some would even dare to die.

8 But God commendeth his love toward us,

in that, while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

being now justified by his blood,

we shall be saved from wrath

through him.

10 For if,

when we were enemies,

we were reconciled to God

by the death of his Son,

much more,

being reconciled,

we shall be saved by his life.

11 And not only so,

but we also joy in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

by whom we have now received

the atonement.”  Romans 5:1-11

And while this is a lengthy passage, I felt that we needed to see it in its larger context than just the first five verses; for you see it’s all about Jesus and the peace that HE bought and paid for with His own blood—for you and me—for all who will come to HIM in repentance and faith in His substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for sin.  Please spend some time reading and pondering this passage phrase by phrase—it’s so amazing, and eye-opening, and brings me great comfort and I think it will you, if you will but take time to let it sink into your heart!  All because of that love of God and the payment for sin that Jesus made, we can come to The Father for salvation, peace, joy and hope for a future with HIM in eternity.  Are you ready?  Do you know HIM?  My friend did, and because of that I know I will be reunited with her (and so many more who have gone on before me) for all of eternity.  How about YOU?

In closing, a reminder that when we hurt too bad to know know to pray, God has that covered with His precious Holy Spirit who intercedes for us in those times (and times we aren’t even aware of!)!

“For we are saved by hope:

but hope that is seen is not hope:

for what a man seeth,

why doth he yet hope for?

25 But if we hope for that we see not,

then do we with patience wait for it.

26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities:

for we know not what we should pray for

as we ought:

but the Spirit itself

maketh intercession for us

with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27 And he that searcheth the hearts

knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit,

because he maketh intercession

for the saints

according to the will of God.”  Romans 8:24-27

God’s got it!  Just let go of whatever you’re afraid of and rest in the arms of The Redeemer King and Savior, Jesus!

“All things are delivered unto me of my Father:

and no man knoweth the Son,

but the Father;

neither knoweth any man the Father,

save the Son,

and he to whomsoever the Son

will reveal him.

28 Come unto me,

all ye that labour

and are heavy laden,

and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you,

and learn of me;

for I am meek and lowly in heart:

and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

30 For my yoke is easy,

and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11:27-30

I pray that you will let Jesus turn those tears into a peace and joy that the world will never understand—but it will sure get their attention, and then we may opportunity to share Jesus with them!

Amen and Amen!!!

Are You Re-Deemed??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 06

03 Sunday Jul 2022

Posted by in A Father's Love, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Are you ready?, Choose You This Day!, Choosing Jesus or The World?, Redeemed By HIS Blood, Redemption Through HIS Blood

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 06. Are You Re-Deemed???

Redeemed: to buy or payoff….to buy back, as from a pawn shop… to recover by payment or other satisfaction….to obtain the release or restoration of, as from captivity, by paying a ransom… Theologically:  to deliver from sin and its consequences by means of a sacrifice offered for the “sinner”. 

Deemed:  a set value, assumed or judged of value… 

Have you received the payment for sin that Jesus came to be, and IS?  We were ‘deemed’ valuable by God when He created us, we chose sin, but GOD “re-deemed” us through the blood of Jesus—HE bought us back!  All because HE deemed YOU/ME valuable enough to HIM to send Jesus to RE-deem all who will come to HIM through faith!!!

“Giving thanks

unto the Father,

which hath made us meet

to be partakers of the inheritance

of the saints

in light:

13 Who hath delivered us

from the power of darkness,

and hath translated us

into the kingdom of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

even the forgiveness of sins:”         Colossians 1:12-14

God created us (read Genesis 1-3), we chose to sin, and all died spiritually losing our intimacy with God.  We died, just as God told Adam he/we would (See Genesis 2:17), and while it was immediate ‘spiritual death’ the physical death was not immediate, but certain (See Hebrews 9:27).  Yet, praise God in His mercy and grace He had already provided a way of redemption—Jesus, His “only begotten Son”, who would pay for our sin—buy us back from the slavery of sin and death we had sold ourselves into.

It’s like we ‘sold the farm’ to Satan, and he holds the mortgage—Jesus paid that mortgage in full at Calvary for those who will come to Him in repentance from our sin and faith in HIS substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for SIN!  He’s paid off the mortgage, he has just not taken (or re-taken) possession of HIS world YET!  But HE’s on the way!  Has your debt been paid or are you still planning on paying your own debt?

“For all have sinned,

and come short of the glory of God;

24 Being justified freely

by his grace

through the redemption

that is in Christ Jesus:

25 Whom God hath set forth

to be a propitiation

through faith in his blood,

to declare his righteousness

for the remission of sins that are past,

through the forbearance of God;”  Romans 3:23-25

And the amazing picture Paul painted as he continued his letter to the Romans:

“For the wages of sin

is death;

but the gift of God

is eternal life

through Jesus Christ our Lord.”  Romans 6:23

I love this picture—the picture of sinners falling prostrate before The Holy God–Father, Son, and Holy Ghost–for the mercy that can forgive sin—pay the debt we owed–receiving HIS grace, mercy, and forgiveness of our sin; and receiving the “righteousness” which only God can impart, to every repentant, believing sinner.  It is what the word “propitiation” means—meeting God at the “mercy seat” with a proper sacrifice!  And Jesus, my friend, IS the proper, appointed, and perfect sacrifice which will save, deliver, and REDEEM you and me from our sin.

“For he hath made him to be sin for us,

who knew no sin;

that we might be made the righteousness of God

in him.”  2 Corinthians 5:21

And just when did God come up with this plan?  Scripture tells us!

“Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed

with corruptible things,

as silver and gold,

from your vain conversation

received by tradition from your fathers;

19 But with the precious blood of Christ,

as of a lamb without blemish

and without spot:

20 Who verily was foreordained

before the foundation of the world,

but was manifest in these last times

for you,

21 Who by him do believe in God,

that raised him up from the dead,

and gave him glory;

that your faith and hope

might be in God.”  1 Peter 1:18-21

Before He created us, God knew we’d blow it—yet HE created us any way, knowing it would cost Jesus HIS life’s blood for all who would believe and receive HIS RE-deeming grace, even as John records in his gospel:

“But as many as received him,

to them gave he power

to become the sons of God,

even to them that believe on his name:

13 Which were born,

not of blood,

nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man,

 but of God.

14 And the Word was made flesh,

and dwelt among us,

(and we beheld his glory,

the glory as of the only begotten

of the Father,)

full of grace and truth.”  John 1:12-14

Just in case you’re still not sure about being “re-deemed”, bought back from the brink of death by the “buying back” of our soul by the Savior; then let us consider the picture that Paul paints of the most profound transaction, if you would, of grace and love in all of scripture!  I pray that it will reach to the depths of your/my soul and draw us nearer to the Savior in gratitude and love—either in restoration if you have drawn away from your Redeemer, in a deeper intimacy with HIM, or in salvation if you don’t know Jesus.  I invite you to join me and ponder this message of the beauty and truth of this REDEEMER who gave Himself for all who will believe and receive Jesus!

“Therefore being justified by faith,

we have peace with God

through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access by faith

into this grace

wherein we stand,

and rejoice in hope

of the glory of God.

3 And not only so,

but we glory in tribulations also:

knowing that tribulation

worketh patience;

4 And patience,

experience;

and experience,

hope:

5 And hope

maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.

6 For when we were yet without strength,

in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

7 For scarcely for a righteous man

will one die:

yet peradventure for a good man

some would even dare to die.

8 But God commendeth his love toward us,

in that, while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

being now justified

by his blood,

we shall be saved

from wrath through him.

10 For if, when we were enemies,

we were reconciled to God

by the death of his Son,

much more,

being reconciled,

we shall be saved by his life.

11 And not only so,

but we also joy in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

by whom we have now received

the atonement.”  Romans 5:1-11

And if you you don’t know the One who made “the atonement” for you, who loves you more than anyone else ever could, please know that He is waiting for you now!

“Behold, I stand at the door,

and knock:

if any man hear my voice,

and open the door,

I will come in to him,

and will sup with him,

and he with me.”  Revelation 3:20

Amen and Amen!!!