Sting Operation!

"Sting Operations" are set up by law enforcement to catch people in the act of criminal activity. Such "stings" are often complex and sometimes lengthy, but when such undercover operations are carried out, criminals are lured in, arrested, and brought to face justice.

Someone has said, "Injustice is relatively easy to bear; what stings is justice." [source: calendar quote]

When we have been dealt an injustice, it may hurt, but we can still feel good knowing we have not done wrong. What often stings most is when we realize we have not been right and meet the justice our actions deserved. Having a wrong pointed out that we cannot deny can hurt. The stings of guilt and consequences that must be faced are felt. We don't like being in such a position. However, the reality for us all is that because of sin in our life, what we really deserve is death. Law demands justice. The penalty for sin must be satisfied. And Jesus -- under the cover of crucifixion by the hands of the Jews and the Roman government -- satisfied the righteous requirement of the law, FULFILLING THE NEED FOR JUSTICE through the offering of Himself. (note Romans 8:3-4) Therefore, because of Christ "the sting" has been removed.

In his letter to the church at Corinth, as Paul addressed the reality of the resurrection, he stated. . .

"(54) When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: 'DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP IN VICTORY.' (55) 'O death, where is your victory? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?"' (56) THE STING OF DEATH IS SIN, and the power of sin is the law. (57) BUT THANKS BE TO GOD, WHO GIVES US THE VICTORY THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST." ( 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 ESV)

Praise God for His "Operation: Send Christ" that has taken the sting out of death and provided the means of eternal life in Him. Rather than a "sting operation" to catch us in criminal or sinful activity, Jesus came to free us from it and the penalty due us. Though death -- eternal separation from God -- is what we deserve, JUSTICE HAS BEEN SATISFIED and we have been pardoned. May we live a life that clearly declares genuine appreciation to God for such a gracious provision.

Have a great day PRAISING GOD FOR JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST!
Carl

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