I came home with two bags of ice, a stupid ’90s song stuck in my head, and a dread-filled heart. I read about the benefits of ice baths and reluctantly decided to give it a try. That night I conquered my fear of bathing in freezing cold water, had the best night’s sleep in weeks, and woke up without joint pain for the first time in years. Now I’m a firm believer in ice for recovery after an intense workout. And I will be singing its praises like the ’90s hit, Ice, Ice Baby!
What do you dread?
Is there something you dread doing but have heard how beneficial it is? What is the ice, ice, baby in your life? What is it that is holding you back from trying? Pain? Shame?
“Because His heart was focused on the joy of knowing that you would be His, He endured the agony of the cross and conquered its humiliation, and now sits exalted at the right hand of the throne of God!” Hebrews 12:2 TPT
Jesus agonized in humiliation because of the benefit it would bring. And this benefit was us, for you, and me. For the joy of knowing we would be His, He chose agony and humiliation. Jesus paid the price for our salvation, freedom, physical healing, and complete restoration. When Jesus bowed His head and willingly died on our behalf, He purchased our redemption. And redemption changes everything!
What Does Redemption Change?
Here are a few changes I am grateful for:
- Our redemption brought us near to God. (Eph. 2:13)
- EVERY spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms is now ours. (Eph. 1:3)
- We are now a part of a royal priesthood. (1 Peter 2:9)
Redemption changed our relationship with God, our destiny, and our identity. The impact of these three things can send ripple effects through us individually, in our families, and in our workplaces. You see, redemption changes everything!
Let’s Reflect
Think about that thing that you dread trying. What benefits would it bring you or your loved ones if you tried it? Ask God to show you the benefits His suffering provided for you. And may He give you the courage to face the hard that will bring some good into your life.
Let’s Pray
Precious Redeemer, we are grateful for Your sacrifice. Thank You for enduring the agony and shame for us. May we use our lives to express our gratitude. May we walk close to God, treasure the blessings of knowing Him, and live like the royal priests You ordained us to be. In Your magnificent name, I pray. Amen.
You are a brave woman! I shudder at the thought of an ice-cold bath!
Thanking Jesus for not turning away from the agony and shame that brought about our redemption.
It’s only by breathing deep and praying my way through the initial plunge that I can do it. Once a week is all I can manage so far!