We have been declared legally, perfectly, irrevocably righteous in Christ
“(God) made (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Cor. 5:21 (NASB)
Most glorious Lord Jesus, what wondrous love is this, indeed? As our substitute in life, you lived a perfect life of obedience, thus fulfilling every demand of the law for us. As our substitute in death, you exhausted God’s judgment against our sin. And through our union with you, we received a righteousness we could never achieve—yours, Jesus, yours! I am now totally forgiven, legally righteous, and eternally free. I will be more like you one Day, but not more justified. Hallelujah, many times over! Take me deeper and deeper into the reality of this good news. The more I get the Gospel into my heart (not just my head), the more I will love others as you love me, Jesus. That’s what I want to be about the rest of my days.
“You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Cor. 6:11 (ESV)
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—glorious Trinity, this one verse reminds me how the whole godhead has secured my irrevocable, magnificent salvation. Wow… how astonishing, comforting, and humbling. Father, you washed and justified me through the finished work of Jesus. And by the Holy Spirit you set me apart for yourself and have sanctified me—for Jesus is my “righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1Cor.1:30). I am undone with joy, filled with gratitude, and liberated to love and serve you. Eternal thanks, adoration, and praise to you, most grace-filled God.
