“For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10

Scripture reading: John 19:22-30

All of God’s people press on in this life, claiming God’s promise of eternal life. All of their lives, they keep their eyes on the prize and at the end of their days, they are able to say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness…”

Of course, it could be no other way. They have been chosen by God and appointed to eternal life. Their names have been written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Christ died for them and when Jesus cried out, “It is finished”, on Calvary’s hill, He signalled that every sin of every believer had been washed in His atoning blood and therefore, heavens portals are open wide, waiting to receive all those who have sought their hope in Him. The head of the serpent has been crushed. The powers of Satan have been overcome. The ultimate price for the sins of the church, collectively and individually as believers has been paid, by the precious blood of Jesus.

Paul glories only in the cross. All of man’s work is excluded from God’s beautiful plan of redemption. All of our good works are counted as rubbish. All that was needed to save us from eternal destruction has been earned for us in the atoning death of Jesus Christ. Our blessedness for time and eternity is a consequence of God’s electing love in Jesus Christ. Soli Deo Gloria! All glory to God alone!

Suggestions for prayer

Thank God for that gift of so great a salvation. Ask Him to help you express your gratitude for that free gift, every waking moment of your day in the way in which you live.

Rev. Mark Zylstra is an emeritus minister of the United Reformed Churches in North America. He and his wife Corrie, live in Smithville ON and their home church is Wellandport, ON URC. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.