“For
the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to
make atonement for yourselves on the altar, it is the blood that makes
atonement for one’s life” (Leviticus 17:11). The
Old Testament principle, cited in Hebrews – “without the shedding of
blood, there is no forgiveness of sins” finds its fulfilment in the
death of Christ – “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). He says to His disciples, “This is My blood of the covenant which is poured out for many” (Mark 14:24). Psalm 31:9-13
sounds very much like a description of Christ’s suffering on the Cross.
This is followed by these great words: “But I trust in You, O Lord; I
say, ‘You are my God’” (Psalm 31:14). The Psalmist goes on to say that “the wicked” will “lie silent in the grave” (Psalm 31:17). This is in contrast to Christ who rose from the grave.
There is to be prayer from “every one who lives in the land” (Joel 1:14). It is to be personal prayer - “O Lord, I cry to You for help!” (Joel 1:19). These two belong together - prayer for the nation and personal prayer. This is expressed so well in the words: “O Holy Ghost, revival comes from Thee. Send a revival. Start the work in me.” We hear the words, “Return to the Lord, your God” (Joel 2:13). They are followed by some wonderful words about the character of God - “He is merciful and compassionate, patient and always ready to forgive and to change His plans about disaster” (Joel 2:13). How do we know that God is like this? We look at what He has done for us - “Be glad and rejoice. The Lord has done great things!” (Joel 2:21). Looking at all that the Lord has done for us, we trust His promise: “Whoever calls on the Name of the Lord will be saved” (Joel 2:32). This salvation is more than forgiveness for past sins. It’s more than the future glory of being in God’s ev...
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