March 19
Acquittal
“I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgression…” —Isaiah 43:25
Read Isaiah 43:25-28
How the tension mounts when an earthly judge is about to give his verdict upon an accused person! Such a judge pronounces judgment after considering the charges against the accused, the plea of the defence lawyer, and the circumstances surrounding the accused. But the Judge of heaven and earth uses different rules. He does not say for instance, “Because you have improved your lifestyle I will pass a sentence less severe.” Neither will the fact that a per-son might have believing parents lessen the punishment that must be passed. The many prayers you have sent up to heaven will not be taken into account. God’s judgment of you and me is “guilty,” and therefore deserving of death.
But when we look into the gracious heart of God, we see that He is longsuffering, compassionate, and kind because of the perfect righteousness and perfect sacrifice of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. For this reason alone, He will show mercy upon whom He wills. Therefore, nothing that you do will be taken into consideration. This truth, however, does not mean that you should remain passive. You should be busy seeking how to escape the wrath to come.
You know, sometimes we say, “I will forgive, but I cannot forget.” When the Lord forgives, He also forgets and casts your sins into the sea of everlasting forgetfulness. And so He remembers them no more. What perfect forgiveness!
Have you heard God’s acquittal in your life? Or, are you still guilty, deserving eternal death?
This devotional was taken from “The Time of Your Life” a daily devotional published by the Youth & Educational Committee of the FRC. To order a printed copy of this book, contact: bookorders@frcna.org.