THE BLOOD OF JESUS
10th Jul 2019
I have a bottle of “Ace Bleach” in my cupboard. It is a great help in removing stains on delicate fabrics. Once having been introduced to it I have used it so many times, and watched as it does its work, without bleaching out the colours on the fabric. I can constantly sing its praises, but it is only effective if I apply it and let to do its job.
Scripture tells us that the Blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7) which we can easily quote without understanding the power that lies within this statement. Leviticus 17:11 tells us that the blood of the sacrificed animal was in fact an atonement for sin - a life for a life; symbolic of the sacrifice that Jesus, the Lamb of God would make for the sins of the world. Hebrews 9:22 says “Without the shedding of blood there in no forgiveness of sins.”
Wherever God’s spirit is moving in revival there will be a new appreciation for the cleansing blood of Jesus and usually hymns and songs inspired by the move of God honouring the blood of Christ. For example
It’s your blood that cleanses me
It’s your blood that gives me life
It’s your blood that took my place in redeeming sacrifice
Washes me whiter than the snow
My Jesus, God’s precious sacrifice
We may know these things, but they have to be applied to personal situations for the precious blood to be effective. Just as I marvel at my Ace Bleach, it’s wonderful to see how the applied blood of Jesus so powerfully frees people from sin, guilt, shame and captivity to satan’s lies.
Once in Nigeria, I witnessed a young woman realising this truth. She came from a tribe where she had received many cuts on her face in dedication to a heathen god. This had been done from childhood, and even though now a believer she still bore these marks on her face. Now married and involved in ministry, but she never felt free. However, when the truth of the power of the blood hit her and she saw its effectiveness for her, she was set free, she rejoiced and danced and understood that she literally had become a new woman. It was a truly wonderful occasion!
The Blood of the Lamb …. gives us peace - Colossians 1:20
frees us from sin - Revelation 1:5
purchases us for God - Revelation 5:9
brings us near to God - Ephesians 2:13
redeems us from an empty life - 1 Peter 1:18-19
…and so much more.
Let us start today to thank and praise God for the sacrifice of Jesus who offered His own blood for our freedom.
by Joyce Sibthorpe
