Redemption

I don't know if I have ever fully understood the idea that God can redeem our story. You see, I grew up in church and I've heard over and over about the redemption of God over lives. Jesus died the death that we deserve and God poured out His righteousness on us instead. Before coming to a saving faith in Jesus Christ, we were enemies of God and through the redemption of Jesus, we then can have life.

I knew that as truth. I believe that as truth. But I didn't grasp fully that God can redeem our story today. However, last night I was able to share where I was this time last year.

Every Monday night I have a bible study with incredible, Godly women and through the sovereign hand of God I shared how last year I was in an abusive relationship with no confidence, identity or worth. I spoke in detail about what I endured. Now, let me share with you, I never envisioned God would use this. I didn't think God could use it. Last night, God showed me otherwise. I was able to not only relate on a deeper level with those women, but also due to my vulnerability was able to make other women comfortable with their stories, hopeful of the redemption that can come and trust that someone understands.

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
Romans 8:28-30

Oh what a beautiful promise that Paul gives in Romans. God truly does work all things (even the bad) out for good to those who love him. And not only that, but it's all so we can be "conformed to the image of his Son". What a mind-blowing promise. It's incredible to see that God really can redeem us from Hell for eternity, but can redeem our stories for today. So today, I'm thankful for my story. I'm thankful for the grace, forgiveness and redemption God has shown in my life. May I always remember to give glory back to the one who deserves it!

Sola Deo Gloria! (To God be the glory alone)