The holiday season is the one time of the year when shops are guaranteed to experience an increase in exchanges, for various reasons, the wrong size, not the right color, on and on. However, I can assure you that Christ has the best exchange program. His plan is simple and easy; you give Him your sin, and He will give you everlasting life. Not a bad plan if you think about it. God spells out the terms clearly with no room for misinterpretation, and He reiterates them all through the Bible. For example, in Ephesians 4:31, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” And then, Colossians 3:12 states, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” One of the many reasons I love serving God is His exchange program. I give up unforgiveness for reconciliation and closer connections. I give up feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem in exchange for Psalms 139:14 “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful. I know that full well.” I want to encourage someone today if you feel like there is no way out and things will never change; let me reassure you that is not true. God not only sees you exactly where you are, but He is there with you. In John 5:6, “ When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, Do you want to get well?” The same question asked in John 5:6 is the question Christ is asking you today. Do you want to move from where you are? Your answer to the question will then begin the exchange process. He will then be able to fulfill Isaiah 61:3 in your life. It states, “and provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. What an amazing exchange program. Although life will throw a few curveballs, and you will weather a few storms. God’s wonderful gift is, He promised never to leave or forsake us, along with a promise to ensure a successful outcome. I challenge you today to explore God’s exchange program for yourself.
Remember, God loves you, and so do I.