Many people are accustomed to living under a heavy burden of unreasonable expectations, and the ensuing guilt and shame when they can’t live up to them. This is the unmistakable sign of the Law of Moses, which puts people in bondage to self-effort and fear. Although Jesus has replaced the law with grace, those who are unaware of this are still living by the law. Accepting the redemption He made available to us frees us from the law and all of its accompanying curses.
To redeem means to buy back, to regain possession of something valuable in exchange for payment. This is what Jesus did when He went to the cross for us. He redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us, for it was written, cursed is everyone that hangs on a tree. If we believe this, we’re redeemed from every curse, addiction, and bad habit.
Under the old covenant, there was a separation between God and mankind. The people lived under a closed heaven. Attempts to get to God were like bumping into a sky of unyielding bronze. Now, heaven is open to us; we can come boldly before the throne of grace, and find grace to help us in time of need.
This redemption even extends to our families. Under the law, sons and daughters were given to another people; parents would have children but couldn’t enjoy them because they went into captivity. Now, entire households are saved by believing on Jesus Christ.
Under the old covenant, the most important thing was following the letter of the law. The new covenant of grace transformed “doing” into “believing,” thereby freeing us from endless empty works because we feel we could never do enough to please God. Recognizing the freedoms Christ has made available to us puts the joy back into our lives. Because of Him, we’re free on every level.
Prayer:
Lord, under the law the people were cut off from You, and life was harsh and unyielding. You sent Your Son to break all the curses of the law and reconcile us back to You. We’re thankful that we now have full access to You and all the blessings in life that You promised. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Scriptures:
- Galatians 3:13
- Deuteronomy 28:23, NLT
- Hebrews 4:16
- Deuteronomy 28:32, 41
- Acts 16:31