Being condemned is not something any of us look forward to. Rather we look forward to being rewarded. We desire getting the pat on the back. We seek those atta-boys and atta-girls. We like to be told we are doing well.
Our self-esteem is built up when we are told we are doing well. It makes us feel good. It is the gas that feeds the engine to cause us to continue to move forward toward a goal. We gain positive energy from the encouragement of others.
There is one encouragement we can take with us at all times. If we are in Jesus, we can no longer be condemned by Satan. We are set free from death. We are promised an eternal life with God. It is a promise that won’t be broken.
Yet, Satan will continue his attacks. He will do everything he can to discourage us. He will put obstacles in our way. He will attempt to confuse us. He will tug and pull at us to go in a different direction. He sends doubts our way. He doesn’t want us to be in Jesus. He wants us to trip and fall. His desires to chew up as many people as he can. We are told that he is a roaring lion looking to devour us (1 Peter 5:8). He will use every trick in the book, then make up new ones to pry us away from Jesus, our Savior.
But God has made a promise. If we accept Jesus as our Savior and hold on to Him, we are free. He has taken us out of the prison Satan would put us in. Only we can put ourselves back into that prison. We hold the key as long as we hold onto Jesus.
Isn’t it comforting to know that Jesus has broken the chains of the Mosaic law? Could you imagine having to periodically sacrifice an animal for your sins? We no longer have to concern ourselves with that. Jesus was the perfect sacrifice, the lamb of God that takes away our sins (John 1:29). No, it doesn’t mean we can do whatever we want and suffer no consequences. It does mean we can ask for forgiveness and God will forgive us.
When you begin to feel discouraged, remember that Jesus has reserved a place for you for eternity. Take heart that Jesus has released you so that you can freely follow Him. The restraints were crushed when He was crucified for each one of us. The promise of eternity was sealed when He rose again. Death has been conquered.
I pray we all find encouragement in the promise of eternal life. I pray we look to Jesus for our salvation. I pray each one of us lives in the freedom provided by Jesus. No condemnation. Freedom to follow Jesus. You have been set free. Eternal life is promised. Be encouraged. Allow your soul to be lifted. Follow Jesus. Trust Jesus.
Romans 8:1-2 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Marty Pressey 