The Cost of Our Salvation
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!1
It is easy to forget how much things cost, and this includes sin. The Bible tells us that, because of us, Christ suffered:
Physical pain. Our Savior was ridiculed, beaten, and humiliated. In his weakened state, he was forced to carry on his shoulders the instrument of his death: the cross. Then he was nailed to it and raised to die (John 19:1-30).
The sin of man. The Lord Jesus lived in this world without sinning, so He never experienced the consequences of sinning or the bitterness of guilt. But on the cross, Christ suffered the fullness of our transgressions, guilt, and shame.
Abandonment. We know that only a handful of His followers, including His mother and John, remained close to Him as He suffered (John 19:25-27). Many, no doubt, feared that they would suffer the same fate.
Divine judgment. God's wrath was poured out on Christ because of our sin. He experienced the condemnation we deserved (Isaiah 53:5, Romans 5:9).
Our Savior suffered much for us, shedding His blood to give us the opportunity to become part of God's family (John 1:12). Take a moment today to tell him how grateful you are for his sacrifice and his love.
Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, how great is Your love for us that You sent Your only Son to die for all mankind. My mind is so limited that it cannot comprehend Your unconditional and unlimited love. But I do not have to understand it, I just have to accept it. Thank You, Lord, for Your love, for Your grace and mercy. Thank You that I have the assurance of eternal life by Your side. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
1. Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV).
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.