We are not the same as we were.
It may seem like an obvious fact, but apparently it’s not as obvious as we would hope – because so often, we live the same way we did before: in fear, in insecurity, in false humility.
Our God is a consuming fire. His anger burns against sin. But we are no longer sinners. For that is what we were (1 Corinthians 6:11). Yet we come into His Presence with humility, with an attitude of honor – but no longer out of fear, but out of love. We aren’t just forgiven sinners – because of Christ’s sacrifice, we have been made the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21). When the Father looks at me, He sees me through the sacrifice of Jesus, because I am one with Him (John 17:22).
I deserved death, but His sacrifice purchased life. I deserved to be afraid of judgment, but His sacrifice purchased confidence to draw near to His throne (Hebrews 4:16). I deserved to live under a curse, but His sacrifice purchased blessing (Galatians 3:13).
I bow before Him not out of fear, but out of love. My heart yearns to know Him more. I want to know Him from every aspect: my King, my Father, my Lover – and the One who loved me so passionately that He was willing to be of no reputation to purchase life for me.