Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission.

Costly Redemption

Posted by Karah

Pause

Quiet your mind and heart as you prepare to study God’s Word. Listen to a worship song that helps you focus.

Think about your most precious possession. How much is this worth? If someone took it, what would you pay to get it back? Write your response.

Read 1 Peter 1:18-21. In your Bible, underline the words “silver or gold” and “precious blood of Christ.” In the margin, write My value to God.

“For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish.”

—1 Peter 1:18-19

Ask yourself:

• What is the “empty way of life” referred to in verse 18? Explain.

• What are some examples of this empty way of life you see in our world today? In your life (past or present)?

• If God has redeemed you from this way of life, He has set you free. You don’t have to live that way anymore. How do you find yourself slipping back into the habits of your before-Christ life sometimes?

Respond

• Re-read 1 Peter 1:18-19. What would change about the way you think about yourself if you fully grasped your worth to God? He purchased your freedom from sin with the highest treasure: Jesus’ own life. How would living in the power of this truth change your daily life? Jot down a few ideas.

• Look at the list of “empty ways of life” you sometimes find yourself slipping back into. Pray over them, asking God to help you better understand the price He paid to set you free from their bondage. List two actions you’ll take this week to walk away from these things.

Behind the Story

In some translations of 1 Peter 1:18, the word “ransom” is used rather than redeem. A ransom is paid for the release of a captive, a concept that would have been familiar to Peter’s first century audience. Slaves could sometimes pay a ransom and be released from their master. God released us from slavery to sin at a costly price: Jesus’ death.

The Point

God redeemed His people with the highest currency of Heaven: Jesus’ blood.

Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Weekly Devotions | Leave a reply

Over and Above

Posted by Karah

Pause

Take some time and ponder this quote from Josh McDowell:

“If Jesus Christ was who He claimed to be, and He did die on a cross at a point of time in history, then, for all history past and all history future it is relevant because that is the very focal point for forgiveness and redemption.”

It’s not uncommon to hear about professional athletes having to pay enormous fines for bad behavior. Read Ephesians 1:7-10. How big is the penalty for our sin against God? What price did God pay to buy us back?

“We have redemption in Him through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.”

—Ephesians 1:7-8

Redemption: “Bought back;” carries the idea of being released from slavery. How is sin slavery?

Through His blood: It is through Jesus’ death—in our place—on the cross that God frees us from sin and its power. This redemption was costly. Have you ever minimized the cost of God’s redemption? Why?

Lavished: To give something extravagant or be exceptionally generous. In Christ, God has shown us abundant and extravagant grace. Understanding the enormity of what God has freely done for you, what words would you use to praise Him?

Respond

Take some time to reflect on your words of praise for God’s lavish grace toward sinners. Toward you. By giving His Son, God secured your forgiveness from sin. Journal a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord for your salvation.

Behind the Story

In the Old Testament, it was required that an innocent animal had to be sacrificed to atone for the sins of the people. This pointed to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the “innocent Lamb” whose blood would atone for the sins of those who believe. This reminds us that God’s forgiveness might come freely, but it did not come cheaply. God, in His holiness, cannot “wink” at sin. Justice demands that restitution (full payment) must be made.

The Point

Salvation may be a free gift, but it isn’t cheap. God paid a great price to buy us back from sin

Redeemer God

Posted by Karah

Pause

Slowly read Job 19:25-27. Everything in Job’s life was uncertain, except God. As you read, underline or circle words that reveal Job’s faith in the unchanging character of God. What does Job know?

“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.”

—Job 19:25

• From all appearances, it seemed that God had truly let Job down. In Job 19:6, Job even claimed God had wronged him. How, then, can God also be Job’s Redeemer?

• Part of the definition of redeemer is someone who acts on behalf of those in need or pleads their case. In this sense, how is God our Redeemer?

• Even in his affliction, Job was sure of God and his power to redeem Job and the situation—that God was able to do what he could not. Does that describe you? Why or why not?

Respond

• You may be in the middle of a situation in which you feel like God has abandoned you. In these situations, it’s easy to confuse your feelings with what you know is true about God ‘s character. Look at verse 25 and remind yourself of the truth Job proclaimed about God even when he felt abandoned. Below, write your own statement of what you know about God’s character—and will trust rather than your own feelings.

• For further study, read Proverbs 23:10-11 which describes God’s work of justice as a Redeemer. Also, listen to “The Silence of God” by Andrew Peterson.

Memory Verse

Memorize Job 19: 25. If you learn best by listening, read Job 19:25 aloud to yourself several times or create a voice memo on your phone you can play back several times during the day.

Behind the Story

Job’s story is presented in the Bible as a kind of test case for faith. Will Job’s faith endure if God allows Satan to take away all that is precious, including his wealth, his children, and his health? Job even lost his reputation, as his dear friends insisted that his predicament had to have been the result of some hidden sin. This is why Job claimed God as His “Redeemer.” The original word in the Hebrew often meant a “lawyer”, someone who would defend the defenseless. Job believed that one day God would defend him against the baseless charges of his accusers.

The Point

God is our Advocate, the one who defends His people and will make all things right. We can depend on Him even in times of great affliction.

A God of History

Posted by Karah

Pause

Turn off or put away anything that could distract you from focusing on God and His Word. Find a quiet place and sit in silence for a few minutes. Ask God to guide your study and prepare your heart.

Read through Isaiah 44:21-23. As you read, record who is responsible for what action under each of the column headers below.

God’s People God

“I have swept away your transgressions like a cloud, and your sins like a mist. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you.” —Isaiah 44:22

• Look at what the people are to do in this verse and what God says He has done. How do they compare?

• Originally, this passage was aimed at the people of Judah who were worshiping idols. God wanted to remind them of who they were and Whose they were. Why would this be important?

• To redeem something is to buy it back, to pay the price. What does it mean for God to say that He is the Redeemer? Explain.

Respond

• Mull over this question: If redeeming us was not part of God’s character, where would we find true, lasting hope? Journal your response and praise God for His redeeming character.

• For further study and context of this passage, read Isaiah 44:28-45:6; 2 Chronicles 36:22-23; and Ezra 1:1-4. Compare Isaiah’s prophecy about King Cyrus and the fulfillment 100 years later.

Behind the Story

Isaiah was a prophet called by God to speak to the southern kingdom of Judah during a tumultuous time in their history. In this call to redemption, God sought to remind the sinful people of their true identity (His servants, His people) and who He is (Creator, Redeemer). Do you think today’s world needs to be reminded of these things? Why or why not?

The Point

God is a redeeming God. Throughout history He has been working to redeem His people, buying us back from the power of sin.

Put to Death

Posted by Karah

Pause

Think for a moment about the sinful actions, attitudes, and thoughts from which God has saved you. Focus your heart by praising and thanking Him for saving you, forgiving you, and protecting you.

“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”

—Colossians 3:3

Read Colossians 3:1-10 in your Bible.

• Read verse 3 again carefully. Write it in your own words.

• Based on what you have learned about God’s wrath the past few weeks, why does His wrath come on the disobedient who live immoral lives?

• According to these verses, what sins should you put away as a believer?

• If you’re a Christian, God has forgiven your sin, and you no longer face His righteous wrath against sin. So, why should you put these things away, if you’re already saved from God’s wrath? Explain.

Respond

• Look back at the sins listed in verses 6, 8-10. Which sins are still part of your life? Remember, you can be sinning in your thought life, even if you aren’t physically participating. Confess these sins to God, asking Him to help you remove them from your life, once and for all.

• Be aware of the temptations that trigger these sins in your life. List ways you will deal with these temptations when they pop up in your life. Jot down one or two actions you’ll put into practice today.

Behind the Story

The Book of Colossians is a letter Paul wrote to the church at Colosse. False teachers had tried to convince the Colossian believers that true spirituality required obtaining knowledge, adhering to certain rules, or having spiritual experiences. Paul directly opposed this teaching by reminding the believers that their life is hidden with Christ. He alone is their salvation. He alone is sufficient.

The Point

Because God is holy and we are His, we should continue to put away sinfulness so that we will become more like Him.

Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Ridgecrest Summer Camps, Weekly Devotions | Leave a reply

Helpless

Posted by Karah

Pause

Think of a time when you were absolutely helpless and needed someone to give you a hand. How did you feel? Thank God that He doesn’t leave us helpless.

When you think about the word helpless, what images come to mind? Write down your ideas.

“For while we were still helpless, at the appointed moment, Christ died for the ungodly. But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!”

—Romans 5:6,8

Read Romans 5:6-10 in your Bible. Read verses 6 and 8 again carefully, then answer these questions:

• In the context of this passage, what does it mean to be helpless? Explain.

• If no one can save themselves and we are all under the wrath of God without a relationship with Christ, what do these verses teach you about the importance of sharing the gospel?

• Clearly, the good news of God’s great rescue is vital information. Is the gospel’s importance reflected in your daily life? How?

Respond

• Think of people in your daily life who do not know Christ. List a few names.

• Meditate on Romans 5:8, reminding yourself that Christ loved each of these people enough to die for them. Ask God for opportunities to show others His incredible love.

Memory Verse

Ask a friend or parent to help you memorize John 3:36. Try reciting it to them. If it helps you to move while memorizing, toss a ball back and forth with your partner as you recite the verse.

Behind the Story

Romans 5 assures us of God’s great love for us by explaining that He chose to take upon Himself His own wrath, which we rightfully deserved. Verses 9-11 go on to tell us that in Christ, God declares us:

• righteous: right according to God’s standard; our sins are removed.

• reconciled: our broken relationship with our Creator has been restored.

The Point

We must share the gospel, because everyone who doesn’t trust in Christ for salvation is subject to God’s wrath.

Payment Made

Posted by Karah

Pause

Make sure you find a quiet place where you can be alone as you study God’s Word. Before getting started, ask Him to help you understand His truth and to apply it to your life.

What are some things you couldn’t do and stay true to who you are? What actions or attitudes would conflict with your character? List a few ideas.

God cannot remain true to His character and just ignore sin or sweep it aside. Because He is righteous, holy, and just, sin and rebellion cannot go unpunished. But, thankfully, God has made a way for us so that we do not have to remain under His wrath—His full fury against sin. Read Romans 3:21-26 in your Bible to find out what it is.

“God presented Him as a propitiation through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His restraint God passed over the sins previously committed.”

—Romans 3:25

Sometimes translated “propitiation,” “sacrifice of atonement,” or “mercy seat,” the concept is that Jesus has become the sacrifice for our sin, turning God’s wrath away from us. How does it make you feel to know Jesus died in your place?

By believing in Christ and accepting His sacrifice, His righteousness can be applied to your life. When God looks at you, He sees Jesus’ righteousness. Clearly the only thing that has the power to save is the finished work of Christ. Do you believe this is true? Why or why not?

Respond

• Jesus willingly took God’s wrath on Himself on your behalf. Meditate on this. How will you let it change the way you live today and every day? Jot down one idea.

• If you have never placed your faith in Christ for salvation, you are still under the wrath of God. Prayerfully consider the Gospel. God’s invitation demands a response. How will you respond today?

• For further study on sacrifices, read about the Passover in Exodus 12:1-11. How is the Passover lamb a picture of Jesus’ sacrifice? How does reading this account give you a greater appreciation for what Jesus did for you?

Behind the Story

Throughout this passage, Paul relied heavily on sacrificial imagery and terms that would have been familiar to his readers. He clearly presented Jesus as the sinless sacrifice prefigured by the Old Testament sacrifices. For more on Old Testament sacrifices, read Leviticus 16–17.

The Point

The immensity of God’s love can only be understood by recognizing His wrath toward our sin and His willingness to take that wrath on our behalf.

Life or Wrath

Posted by Karah

Pause

Ponder this quote to begin your time with God:

“You’re not adopted as God’s child until you confess and turn away from your wrongdoing and receive the freely offered gift of forgiveness and eternal life that Jesus purchased with his death on the cross. Until you do that, you’ll always be on the outside looking in.” —Lee Strobel

Pore over John’s words in John 3:27-36. Underline any words or phrases that show you why Jesus is so important.

“The one who believes in the Son has eternal life, but the one who refuses to believe in the Son will not see life; instead, the wrath of God remains on him.”

—John 3:36

Re-read verse 36 again, then consider what this passage teaches you about what brings God’s wrath and what brings eternal life. Record your answers for each.

Wrath Eternal Life

• According to John 3:36, there is no middle ground between God’s wrath and eternal life. You can only be saved by trusting Christ. How do you sometimes find yourself trying to earn God’s favor?

Respond

Consider in what ways you still strive to avoid God’s wrath and earn His favor through your own merit or actions, rather than resting in what Christ has done:

Actions:

Words:

Thoughts:

Attitudes:

Today, instead of trying to earn God’s grace, live in thankfulness for the grace you have already received.

Behind the Story

By affirming Jesus’ identity, John explained the monumental role belief in Jesus plays in a person’s eternal destiny. Only Jesus can remove the wrath of God. Apart from Him, we have no hope of ever escaping it.

The Point

Those who have accepted Christ have received eternal life, but those who reject Him continue to live under God’s wrath.

Not Hidden

Posted by Karah

Pause

If weather permits, go outside for a few moments. Listen to the sounds. Breathe in the scents. Take note of the details in nature. As you do, praise the God who created it and is revealing Himself to us through it.

The world’s definition of wrath ranges from extreme anger to annoyance. When Scripture talks about God’s wrath, it does not describe minor annoyance. If you were writing a definition for God’s wrath as described in the Bible, what would it be? Write it below.

Read Romans 1:16-20, then re-read verses 18-20.

“For His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse.”

—Romans 1:20

In verses 16-17, Paul pointed out that God had revealed His righteousness through the gospel. In verse 18, he begins discussing God’s wrath. What is the relationship between God’s righteousness and His wrath? Explain.

Verses 18-20 stress that no one has an excuse for not knowing God because He has revealed Himself generally through nature and specifically through His Word and through Christ. This is the truth that humans have suppressed (v. 18). Why do they do that? How do you see that in our culture today?

Respond

• How has God revealed Himself to you through His creation, His Word, and ultimately through Christ? Thank Him for this knowledge. Journal your short prayer below.

• For further study on how God has revealed Himself through creation, read Psalm 19:1-4.

Behind the Story

The two seemingly opposite topics of God’s righteousness and His wrath appear alongside each other in Romans 1 because they are inseparable. God can’t be righteous and holy, and also turn a blind eye to sin. God hates the sin that separates us from Him and destroys us. He will stop at nothing, not even sacrificing His own Son, to free us from sin and bring us into fellowship with Himself.

The Point

God has clearly shown us what He is like, and we cannot claim ignorance of His existence of power. We can accept or reject Him, but everyone must give a response.

Holy Wrath

Posted by Karah

Pause

Think about what you know about God’s character—holy, just, wrathful. In recognition of who He is, kneel or lie face down as you pray, asking Him to use today’s Scripture to teach you more about Himself.

Read Psalm 90:7-12 in your Bible.

“Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts.”

—Psalm 90:12

Read verse 12 again carefully, then answer these questions:

• Was God justified by His extreme anger toward the Israelites? (See “Behind the Story.”) Why or why not?

• To number your days is to value them and choose to live in ways that please God because you recognize that life is short and know that God hates sin. Who in your life is a good example of that kind of attitude? Why?

Respond

God’s righteous response to sin is His holy wrath. How would your life be different if your attitude toward sin reflected His? Journal your response. Ask God for wisdom so that you will “number your days” and live out your life in a strong, healthy relationship with Him.

Behind the Story

Psalm 90 was written by Moses in response to God’s anger toward the Israelites. God had freed them from slavery, but they repeatedly disobeyed and rebelled. Their faithlessness kindled God’s anger. The ultimate result of their disbelief was wandering in the wilderness for the rest of their lives, instead of entering the paradise God wanted to give them. These people understood firsthand the cost of sin and the wrath of God.

The Point

God’s holy anger toward sin seems extreme to us because we don’t understand the horrendous destruction of sin. If we did, we would take our sin more seriously and live much differently.

Newer posts

Older posts