Romans 8:1 (NKJV)
8 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
What do you need to do to be accepted by God? Are there steps you need to take to cleanse yourself from the sin that permeates all of our lives? Are you worthy of forgiveness? Peter denied Christ three times and still received grace. Who decides one way or the other? What does it mean to be in Christ Jesus and how do you know if you are? This verse tells us that there is no condemnation for those in Christ. How can I be in Christ?
Just As I Am, the Song, was written in 1835 by Charlotte Elliott and became the official ‘altar call’ song of the Billy Graham Crusades. Many souls have found Jesus as Savior in response to the simple beauty of this song. It warms my heart every time I hear it. It reminds me of the incredible gift offered to all of us. The gift I have accepted.
Have you accepted the gift? You see, there is nothing you could do to earn grace. It is a free gift. All you need do is ask. To be in Christ is to invite Him into your heart to abide with you. Open the door and let Him in. He will do the cleansing and preparation and will remake you in His image from the inside out. You don’t deserve it. You can never earn it. You can never pay Him back. But you can enjoy grace because of what Jesus has done and because He says you are worthy. He says you are holy, righteous and redeemed! You are His and He wants you to be with Him where He is and to remain with Him always. He accepts you just as you are! He invites you into His presence. He wishes that none should perish. Will you accept the gift? Invite Him in to abide with you! He is calling. Answer the door!
Jesus, we hear Your call. You offer us grace in our wretched states. You invite us to come to you just as we are. Please help us to overcome the unworthiness of our souls and bid us come to Thee. Give us strength so we can say Lamb of God, I come and take those steps! In Your name we pray. Amen!
Just as I am, without one plea, But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.