Devotionals for the Heart: Jesus Christ paid for your sins so you can be free

Free from the Sins of my Youth
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

Have you ever had a nightmare that stayed with you?

My dream that night felt like reality. In it, I came face-to-face someone from my past, someone who had deeply wronged me, though in truth, I had wronged them as well. When I awakened, I couldn’t stop thinking about that time in my life, beating myself up for all the ways I had erred and gone astray. The “if onlys” swirled … if only I had chosen this instead of that or done that instead of this.

I struggled all morning, consumed by memories. One memory edged into the next, and soon I found myself going back over my life, all the way from my childhood until now, thinking about the mistakes I’d made over the years. Shame washed over me. Stones, large and small, accumulated. I felt like a piece of garbage as one by one I owned those mistakes, many of them long forgotten. After all, I had been willful—and haven’t we all?

I squeezed my eyes shut. There was nothing I could do about any of this now, in spite of my regret. All I could do was own up, acknowledge my wrongdoing, and apologize, though I knew nothing I could say would fix anything. God, I’m sorry, my soul cried out. Truly, I’m sorry.

The balm of God’s peace blanketed me. And in a flash, I remembered that extravagant, almost unbelievable truth: I’m covered! My mistakes are forgiven! Even if I do feel like a piece of garbage for having made those mistakes, in the eyes of God, I’m redeemed. And it’s all because of Jesus Christ—only because of Jesus. Because of Jesus, I’m washed clean. There’s no regret or repentance or sacrifice I can make strong or deep enough to apologize or make right any wrongs I’ve ever done in my life. It’s only because of Jesus that these wrongs are made right, that my sin-debt is paid. What mercy.

It’s the same for all of us. Perhaps you have experienced this, too, that weight of guilt and anguish when you remember certain ways you went wrong in the past. It doesn’t matter how “bad” it was, or how it stacks up when compared to others. Lying and selfishness are every bit as awful as murder in the eyes of the Lord, and one sin is just as horrible as twenty. When we finally get to that point of owning up and realizing how wrong we were, it’s like a knife to the chest. How could I have done that? Who was that person?

Yet we know the truth: No matter how bad, how wrong, or how ugly, Jesus washes us clean. Our belief and our repentance are the first step, but he’s the real savior.

Now, my heart is settled, for I know I’m forgiven. Even if I have a bad dream every night for the rest of my life, every day I have the chance to wake up and remember that beautiful truth all believers can experience: through Jesus, we’re forgiven.

But I ask you: Where are you with the weight of your own past sins? Are you worn down by pain and regret, beating yourself up? Or are you living the liberated and joyful life God has provided, free now to do all the wonderful things God has in store for you to bring about his kingdom here on earth? I hope it’s the latter.

It is OK to experience the occasional regret when you recall way that you went astray. We’re all human. But here’s the thing—Jesus tells us to pick up our cross and follow him (Matthew 16:24). Picking up our cross means embracing our struggles and temptations, our sins and our pain, and coming to Him anyway. It means walking on His path just we are at this very moment, in spite of it all, trusting He will make it right.

Just like that sinner who was crucified next to Jesus, who asked Jesus to remember him when he comes into his kingdom, Jesus says the same thing to us when we repent that he did to that man: “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43 NIV).

This gift is echoed in God’s words to the prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 57:17-19: “‘I was enraged by their sinful greed; I punished them, and hid my face in anger, yet they kept on in their willful ways. I have seen their ways, but I will heal them; I will guide them and restore comfort to Israel’s mourners, creating praise on their lips. Peace, peace, to those far and near,’ says the Lord. ‘And I will heal them.’”

We can’t comprehend the extravagant love of God. We can try to, but knowing he gives us the chance to live with him in eternity simply for following Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior is truly inconceivable. It’s like winning the lottery, only a billion times better. We don’t have to understand how we got to be this lucky or beloved by God. We simply have to accept this gift, and in that gratitude help spread the good news so others receive this gift, too.

If you are struggling right now with memories of days gone by, things you’ve done or things done to you, perhaps now the time to experience freedom—the freedom that comes from setting these burdens down at the foot of the only one who can do anything about them, Jesus Christ. In Jesus we have liberation now and forever.

Let’s Pray: Lord, forgive me for all the ways I’ve done wrong, all my sins and shortcomings, all the ways I’ve hurt you—the things I remember and the things buried so deep I cannot remember. Thank you for your forgiveness and your love. Help me remember the words of Jesus to the sinful woman in John 8:11, “Neither do I condemn you … Go now and leave your life of sin.” I love you, Lord. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Jesus Paid It All” by Kim Walker-Smith. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian novelist, journalist, editor, blogger, and writing coach and the recipient of the 2018 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award for her novel, The Memory Garden. 

She is also the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. 

She released an Advent devotional for those seeking true closeness with God, which you can find at https://www.jessicabrodie.com/advent. Learn more about Jessica’s fiction and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com. She has a weekly YouTube devotional and podcast. 

You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and more. She’s also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed.

Devotionals for the Heart: True Love

God’s Steadfast Love for You
A devotional by Kerry Teravskis

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning, great is Your faithfulness.” 

–Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

Steadfast. Resolute. Firm. Faithful. Loyal.

Do we even know what this word means anymore? I mean, really? In our consumer-driven society, we do not stick around when the tough times come. Or when we lose interest, we move on. We are a fickle people. We change relationships, jobs, homes, churches about as often as we change shoes.

Maybe I am being a bit harsh. But, the amount of change I see and hear about has me scratching my head. People tell me they stopped praying because it didn’t work. They stopped coming to church because it was at the wrong time—you know, they have young children. Or, they are so busy that they just don’t have time to read the Bible. They are busy, can’t you see?

It does sound harsh, I get it. But in comparison to the steadfast love of God, our lip service is pathetic. The reason these verses, along with an old simple chorus that accompanies it, have been playing in my head nonstop for the last four days is this stark reality–God’s love remains.

In love Jesus Christ left the throne, humbled Himself as a babe, endured ridicule, betrayal, mockery, beatings, the Cross. He became sin who knew no sin. And because of that His Father, His beloved Abba, had to turn His face away when Jesus was on the Cross. It was because of God’s steadfast love that Jesus came in obedience to His Father’s will (John 3:16).

Think of this: Jesus knew loneliness, abandonment, suffering, pain, hunger, anguish, mockery – all these were done by the hands of man but also within the Sovereign will of the Father.

Now consider this: Jesus knew love, laughter, kindness, companionship, mercy, grace, obedience, goodness, worship, prayer, a shared meal, an inside joke, the feel of a child’s hand in His, the touch of the sick. He saw faith in action, humility displayed, sacrifice given.

Oh how great is the Father’s love for us! Overwhelmed would be the best word to describe my heart. I’m overwhelmed at the price Christ paid, the ransom for humankind that was paid in full by Him, the crucifixion suffered for me and you when Jesus was fully innocent! The Lamb of God who was without sin. Jesus took my place, our place, on that cross. We deserve God’s wrath and punishment and not a place at God’s table. Instead because of Jesus, we receive mercy, grace, steadfast love, a room in His mansion (John 14:2) and a place to sit on His lap.

The steadfast love of the LORD never ever ceases!

Let’s Pray: O Lord, I am indeed overwhelmed with Your love. It is faithful, complete, good, resolute in its capacity for me. You are amazing and I stand in awe of You. I now bow in worship of You. I now am at Your feet in humility of You, my Lord. Lead me. Guide me. Bless me. Protect me. Help me follow Your Son all the way to Heaven! In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Jesus Paid It All” (song) by Kim Walker-Smith. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

As a wife and Marmee to three adult children and one brand new daughter-in-love, my life is very full. 

My husband and I met in college and served in the mission field for a few years before settling down back in the States to raise our family.

We were a homeschooling family for 20 years and enjoyed it immensely. For the last 22 years we have lived on a small farm in Northern California where we have raised many farm animals, along with growing and preserving our own food as well. Our farm has been a great source of enjoyment and a place to host many family gatherings, and we have an open door for dear friends, old and new.

Following and serving Jesus is an integral part of my life as well as that of my family. Whether it’s singing in our church choir, teaching children or leading and lecturing at a women’s Bible study, I love to demonstrate my love for Jesus by giving to Him in service.

I’ve been a blogger for seven years, a Bible study writer for a year and have spent this last year writing devotionals about finding God’s Sovereignty in our pain and suffering.

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Connect with Kerry:
Blog: https://www.sovereignblog.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.teravskis/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sovereignblog/
https://www.instagram.com/ksteravskis/

Falling for Books: Barbara's book

A Ringtone For God
A devotional by Barbara M. Britton

Many years ago, I purchased a smart phone. It sat in its perch and didn’t see much use. Then, my kids grew up and preferred that I text them reminders instead of calling them the traditional way. A family member became deaf, so community texting was invaluable for communication. And, I became an author and the expectation was that I be on several social media outlets and actively check for responsive readers. Needless to say, my phone didn’t sit in its perch very much anymore. My phone travels most everywhere I do. Does this sound familiar?

I thought about comparing the time I spent on my smart phone to the time I spent with God. Was I more focused on technology or God? I think the answer would be humbling. Technology isn’t going away, but what if I could use it as a reminder to focus on God and use it as a light for the world? What if…

First thing every morning when I picked up my phone to communicate with an elderly family member, I thanked God for a new day. I’m a cancer survivor and tomorrow is always a blessing.

I’ve never taken a selfie because at my age who wants a close up of your face? If I did take a picture of myself, could I wear a cross? Show a Scripture verse or the Bible? Hold up a Christian music CD? What if I showcased my Creator and His beautiful world instead of my features?

After texting with a friend or family member, could I pray for something specific for them? I Thessalonians 5:17 says, “pray continually.” If I prayed for the people who texted me and commented on my social media, my prayer time would skyrocket. What if I chose the first three every day?

Sometimes, I have to admit, all the dings and hums stress me out. People want my attention. How much more does God seek my attention? What if I set an imaginary ringtone for God? I hear a ding, and I remember my Savior. I could praise God that I can hear the noise? I can praise God I have community. I can praise God I have a computer at my fingertips. I can pray and ask God for wisdom on how best to use this little computer.

1 John 5:21 says, “Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.” How wonderful it would be if more people focused on growing their faith than scanning friend’s vacation photos on Facebook.

We serve an awesome God who gave Man the ability to create computers, smart phones, emojis, hashtag movements and the list goes on and on. Let’s shift our focus from the created to the Creator and remember to abide in Jesus. We can even change our ringtones to shine the light of Jesus.

What ringtone would help you remember all that God has done for you?

I’ll take “Jesus Paid It All.”

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Author Bio:

Barbara M. Britton lives in Wisconsin and writes Christian Fiction for teens and adults. 

She has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate. 

Barb brings little known Bible characters to light in her Tribes of Israel series. Her latest book brings to light the story of Nehemiah and how this man of prayer rebuilt Jerusalem’s wall with the help of the daughters of Shallum. 

You can find out about Barb’s books on her website, or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

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Book blurb for Barbara's book, Jerusalem Rising: Adah’s Journey:

When Adah bat Shallum finds the governor of Judah weeping over the crumbling wall of Jerusalem, she learns the reason for Nehemiah’s unexpected visit—God has called him to rebuild the wall around the City of David.

Nehemiah challenges the men of Jerusalem to labor on the wall and in return, the names of their fathers will be written in the annals for future generations to cherish. But Adah has one sister and no brothers. Should her father who rules a half-district of Jerusalem be forgotten forever?

Adah bravely vows to rebuild her city’s wall, though she soon discovers that Jerusalem not only has enemies outside of the city, but also within. Can Adah, her sister, and the men they love, honor God’s call? Or will their mission be crushed by the same rocks they hope to raise.

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Buy Jereusalem Rising on Amazon, B&N, CBD, or ask your library to order it and shine a light on God’s stories.

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Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below:
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