I certainly agree with all that is written in this issue of Insights regarding the value of the Old Testament. It is the Word of God. It is a picture of His divine nature. It is a message for each of us about the relationship we all can have with the one and only true God. But for me it is also a vivid reminder of a God who redeems.
Among the many messages taught through the words of the Old Testament, one that resounds for me is a message of personal grace. I gain a new sense of confidence when I recognize God’s consistent intention to use those whom the world would identify as least likely. The stammering, the conflicted, the runners, the selfish…these, and even worse, He chose to redeem and use for His purposes and glory.
God is in the business of redemption. He takes what appears to have little value and restores it for His divine purpose. God redeems people, relationships, and our sense of personal worth, even when we are discouraged and feeling unworthy. When we've lost confidence, when we've lost our way, God redeems.
In a world of uncertainty, what do we need more than anything else? We need hope. We need to know that God can do for us what we could never hope to do for ourselves and even at this moment, by the power of His Spirit, the work of redemption can begin. And what God begins, He completes.
The Old Testament provides an incredible glimpse of God's redeeming work in people's lives, and in that respect I've appreciated the significance of these stark words from Chuck Swindoll regarding those times we are in greatest despair:
“You're through. Finished. Burned out. Used up. You've been replaced…forgotten. That's a lie!
Nothing is beyond God's redemptive power, and the Old Testament is a great reminder of this truth.
“I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.” (Isaiah 44:22).
I am redeemed, and His work of redemption continues.
Just a thought…
