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A WORTHY SUBSTITUTE

he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Psalms 23:3

Some of us regularly do what’s right, but do any of us always do it? Listen: ‘There is none righteous, no, not one’ (Romans 3:10). ‘Well’, you say, ‘I think I’m basically a righteous person.’ The Bible says, ‘The Lord is righteous’’ (Psalm 11:7). Do you mean you’re righteous like Him? He never made a wrong decision, entertained a wrong thought, took a wrong turn, or said a wrong word. Still think you’re righteous? The question is, could a God who is righteous live side by side in heaven with those who are not? That’s like asking if Oxford would admit a secondary school drop-out. It’s a nice sentiment, but hardly a passing grade. Would God be right to overlook our sins and lower His standards? No, He wouldn’t be right, and if God’s anything, He’s right. Then what are we to do? Find a worthy substitute or go to hell! And that’s where Jesus comes in; He’s the Good Shepherd Who gave His life for the sheep. At the cross He said, “Father, take it out on Me. That killer - I’ll take his death sentence. That adulteress - I’ll take her shame. That bigot, liar and thief - Whatever they had coming, lay it on Me.” And God did: ‘Christ died for the unrighteous, to bring you to God’’ (1 Peter 3:18). The cross was a trading post. God placed all your sin on Christ and simultaneously placed all His righteousness on you. Listen: ‘God has made a way to make [us] right with Him’’ (Romans 3:21). Aren’t you glad!

Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank you for taking what it is that I deserve. I am eternally grateful. Help me to try and live my life each day knowing the great price you paid for me. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen