Day 5

Paul leads us to refocus on Jesus. Let’s pause for a moment, take a breath, and say those first two words again… “In Him…”  

It isn’t through our efforts or our accomplishments, but in Jesus that we find freedom.
There is a quiet confidence in this passage that is hard to miss. The forgiveness of our sins isn’t dependent on how well we perform. It doesn’t rise and fall with our effort. It is “In Him” that we have redemption, through His blood and His sacrifice. Because of that, we can stand firm and confident in the freedom He’s given us. Let this truth be grounding and unshakable for you today.

Fun fact about me, I often have this tendency in me to conserve and stretch my resources as far as possible. My mom taught me how to find the deals and sales, make a dollar stretch, and to be mindful of what I do have and how I use it. Day to day, this could look like using a slightly smaller scoop of protein powder so it lasts longer, adding water to the last bit of cleaning products to get every drop out, and keeping every gift bag and carefully refolding tissue paper to reuse later. It gives me a sense of control and saves time and money down the road… anyone else do this?

Here’s the really amazing thing about God… He is not like that with His love and forgiveness. He pours them out generously and extravagantly. He delights in lavishing us with His riches. God doesn’t give us just enough. He isn’t stingy or reluctant with His gifts. They are abundant and freely given. His grace isn’t careless either. With perfect wisdom, God chooses to pour out Himself generously on our behalf.