But anyone who sins defiantly, whether native-born or foreigner, blasphemes the LORD and must be cut off from the people of Israel.
Numbers 15:30 (NIV)
Father, as I read through Your Word this morning, my soul was convicted, especially when You outlined what needed to be done regarding those who sin unintentionally and intentionally (Numbers 15:22-31). How many times over the past 24 hours or 24 minutes have I failed to keep Your commandments? Whether intentionally or unintentionally, by thought or deed, how have I fallen short? The number is staggering. And the more I learn about Your righteous requirements, the more I realize I fall short. What can remove the sin stains on my hands? I cry out with the words of Paul, “Oh wretched man that I am, who can deliver me from this body of death (Romans 7:24)?”
And like him, my soul cries out, “Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 7:25)!” This morning I thank You for the forgiveness that is mine in my Savior. Thank You that through Him and because of Him my sins are no longer held against me, but as I lay them before You not only do You forgive me of them, but You cleanse me from their horrid stain! Jesus did what I could not do and purchased for me what I could not buy – complete and total pardon.
How often do I take for granted this wonderful gift? How much do I find myself taking lightly the grace that is mine through Him? This morning I can’t and won’t let that be my story! Today, I pause to acknowledge my pitiful state and praise and glorify You for the wondrous provision You made for me at Calvary! I thank You for sending Your beloved Son to die for me. I thank Him for enduring the cross and suffering its shame for me. I thank Your Holy Spirit for filling me, convicting me, and keeping me, reminding me of the goodness of my God and the glorious provision that has been made for me.
Today, I lay my soul at the foot of the cross and I sacrifice myself to You, LORD. I am crucified with Christ. And the life I live I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and died for me. I am not my own. I am Yours. Have Your way in Jesus’ Name! Amen!