As we close out our reflections on Easter, here is a final devotion that reminds us how Jesus’ death and resurrection should affect our lives daily, living without fear:

IN WORD God’s Word through Isaiah tells us what kind of God He is. Granted, this prophecy was given to Israel, but logic applies it to everyone He has redeemed. Those whom He has purchased and summoned by name are His. That has plenty of implications. We might read it as our obligation to serve Him and depend on Him to the neglect of our own sense of autonomy. And it’s true; as His redeemed ones, we are obligated to Him. We were bought with a price. But there’s a warmer, more encouraging side to this verse: God doesn’t go to the trouble to save and cultivate a people only to let them flounder in their own troubles. Even in their rebellion, He saves. Think of what that means. When we pass through the waters—and we will pass through them—He will be there. When we walk through the fire, no matter how hot it feels, we will not be burned. The Holy One of Israel is the Holy One of all He has bought. He didn’t redeem us to then leave us alone.

IN DEED Do you see how that changes everything for us? The knowledge of what God has already invested in us ought to be enough to convince us that He will not give up on the investment. A shortsighted, double-minded god might drop his precious investments when they go bad, but not the eternal God of well-laid plans. He knew the day He redeemed you what your future would look like. And He committed to it. That means there is nothing you are experiencing now that was not part of His foresight in your redemption. God does not fly by the seat of His pants, picking up those whom He can and abandoning those who have become too difficult. You were redeemed; you are His. That’s a huge obligation, but it’s a huge relief. You are His. He will watch over you as a treasured possession because that is what you are. He is never careless with His property. There is nothing more secure in the world. “There is never a fear that has not a corresponding ‘Fear not.’” – Amy Carmichael (in “Worship the King” by Chris Tiegreen)

Do you take Jesus’ salvation seriously? Do you fear that it is “not enough” and that you need to do “something more”? Then take time this week to reflect on Romans 5-6 and Hebrews 4-6, asking the Holy Spirit to give you assurance of Jesus’ “one-for-all” work on the Cross. More importantly, know that if He was willing to die for you while you were His enemy, He will now certainly not abandon you. Have a blessed week!