Into the Fire

Sometimes . . . the past leaps in front of you like an animal darting across the street. You swerve, brake, screech, and . . . go on. With God’s blessing and intervention you don’t hit the squirrel, cat, dog, deer, or other living creature. Unfortunately, you can’t say the same for your past.

Those of you who grew up in the atmosphere of real Christianity, lived out in good form, the example set for you with genuine definitions of sin and consequences, salvation and service, love and discipline, it was a generous gift to you. Humans being what they are, you had your battles with sin and had to come to the same conclusion we all did—that you were a sinner in need of a Savior. Hopefully, you decided it early on, made your commitment, and remained faithful, never having to tackle the really ugly stuff. Not that it’s any different really.

But . . . for those of us who partook of the world in a rather serious fashion before we came to know Jesus, there are a lot of regrets concerning our former lives. Bad things, sad things, humiliating things. Being reminded of those choices we made can easily produce “down” time—and by that term I don’t mean rest and recreation.

Consequences can go on for years even though the sin is washed away by the precious Blood of Jesus. Eventually the feelings of guilt fade, but up they jump when a reminder of a person, place, and thing from the past is either in trouble or trying to make trouble in the present. Not really a lot that can be done to fix it. Life is different now. Vastly different.

Makes you appreciate your Redeemer even more and marvel at His generosity, long for His comfort so willingly provided, and refuse to let that down time overwhelm you.

Father, you rescued me from my life of sin. You washed me whiter than snow with the Blood of your Son. Jesus, you are my best friend, interceding for me before the throne. Holy Spirit, you provide the counsel and comfort in the down times to remind me how real my salvation truly is. And you lead me into prayer for those who are caught in the webs of sin. Rescue them, too, God. Please. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.