Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:17 (NLT)
The fact that Adam sold us out really ticks me off.
I’m not saying I could have done any better, but it’s mind-boggling to think that one man’s choice to choose Satan over God ushered in all sickness, pain, hurt and loss in this world. And ever since then, mankind has been dealing with the aftermath of Adam’s choice.
The problem is we often try to overcome the wrong way. For example, many religious teachers try to shame the sin out of people. This just brings judgment and condemnation, and it actually exasperates our efforts. Why? Because judgment doesn’t free us; the grace of God does.
For years, I counselled inmates. I met men who were filled with regret because they had hurt people they loved while they were drunk, high or angry. When you look into their eyes, you see broken men—some so filled with shame and condemnation that they are in danger of taking their own lives.
Jesus knows what that feels like because He took the nature of sin upon Himself on the cross. And no matter what we’ve done, He offers us an exchange in place of our shame: the nature of God, a relationship with him, forgiveness, healing, peace, joy, strength and so much more!
That’s His grace in action—the grace that freed you when you gave your life to Christ and continues to free you today and every day. So, when you struggle with temptation, turn again to God’s grace. He sets you free!