We live in a world of people accustomed to toiling under a heavy burden of unreasonable expectations, and the ensuing guilt and shame when they can’t live up to them. This is a carryover of the Law of Moses, which put people in bondage to self-effort and fear. Jesus has replaced the law with grace; however, if we’re unaware of this, we’ll continue living under an expired covenant. Accepting the redemption that He made available to us frees us from the law and all of its pointless, unnecessary labors.

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. Heaven is now 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 curse of 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 law, the most important thing was following all the rules; under grace, “doing” has become secondary in importance to “believing.” This transformation frees us from endless empty works we did because we felt 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. Christ broke all the curses of the law and reconciled us back to You. Thank You for giving us 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