The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

VANQUISHING SIN’S CONSEQUENCES

As Absalom was plotting to attack and kill David, counterforces were already coming into place to block his progress. God used the “advice” of Hushai to give David and his men an advantage and an opportunity to prevail over Absalom’s wicked schemes. Although Absalom thought he was in control of the situation, God was already working against him to fulfill his promises to David and to David’s other descendants. In the same way, those who resist God and pursue sin are laying up trouble for themselves (Ro 2:4 – 9). This life is filled with events shaped by sinful human actions. For believers, Jesus has applied his grace to cover sin. Yet, Christians still experience the implications of the wrong actions of others. Part of the “good news” of the gospel is that eventually the world will see how God has conquered sin’s effects in our world once and for all. One day, believers will experience the beautiful reality expressed in Revelation 21:4: “ ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Even now, God is at work to set things right, to work against evil and bring peace through Christ. And there is a much greater day in the future, one that is no longer marred by sin’s consequences.

Jesus, I cannot wait until the day when all will be right and all creation will see that you are Lord. Help me to live in the reality of this hope today. Amen.