“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions–it is by grace you have been saved.” Eph 2:4-5 (NIV)
Why would God go to such lengths to rescue us and redeem us? God’s great love and rich mercy are two reasons God comes to our rescue. His love is limitless. His mercy is proportionate to His love.
Even when we were dead in our sinful indulgence, God made us alive with Christ. We were hopeless and destitute, but God resurrected us from our deadness. God did for us that which we could not do for ourselves.
“In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.” Romans 6:11-12 (NIV)
What is your response to God’s initiative? Have you turned your life over to Christ and fully submitted to His Lordship? Have you measured His love and received His mercy? Then, you have been made alive with Christ. You are dead to sin but alive in Christ.
“For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Col 3:3-4 (NIV)
Will you allow Christ to live His life through you today? The best is yet to come!
Pursuing God,
Stephen Trammell
Executive Pastor
(This devotional was originally posted in ’07 or ’08. I’m taking a break from writing for a season of personal renewal.)
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