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The Path to God’s Presence

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The Path to God’s Presence

Scripture: 1 Peter 3:18
“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit.”

Devotional Thought -Day 11

At the heart of the gospel is a glorious purpose: not merely that we be forgiven, but that we be brought to God. The cross is not only the place where sin was dealt with—it is the doorway into divine fellowship. Jesus, the righteous One, willingly suffered in the place of the unrighteous to accomplish this very end: our restoration to the God who made us. Every other benefit of salvation flows from this central aim—communion with the Father through the Son, by the Spirit.

Peter’s words beautifully summarize what theologians call penal substitutionary atonement. Christ bore the penalty for our sins—once, for all time. Unlike the repetitive sacrifices under the old covenant, Christ’s offering was final, sufficient, and effective. His death was not symbolic; it was substitutionary. He stood in our place, enduring the judgment we deserved, so that we might stand in His righteousness and enter the presence of God unafraid.

The phrase “to bring us to God” is deeply personal. This is not a cold transaction—it is the very heartbeat of redemption. We were once alienated, far off, and under judgment. But Jesus came to close that gap, to tear the veil, and to open the way into God’s presence (Mark 15:38). Salvation is not merely about escaping punishment; it is about gaining a Person. The gospel is not just the removal of guilt—it is the renewal of relationship.

Peter also emphasizes the contrast in Christ’s death and resurrection: “put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit.” Though Christ died physically, His spirit was not extinguished. In fact, His resurrection life now empowers ours. Just as Jesus triumphed through suffering, so too we can endure trials knowing that the path of pain is not the end. In Christ, suffering is never wasted—it always moves us closer to the heart of God.

Today, let this truth settle deeply: You were saved not simply from something, but for Someone. Christ died to bring you to God. Spend time in His presence. Draw near with boldness, knowing the way has already been made. Rest in the reality that, through the cross, you belong—not just to a better future, but to the God who loves you now.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the grace that brought me near. I praise You for sending Jesus to suffer in my place so that I might be restored to You. Help me to treasure Your presence and walk in communion with You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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