For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new
covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal
inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed
under the first covenant. Hebrews 9:15 (NIV)
Recently several companies’ networks
were attacked by a “ransomware” virus. Employees were notified that they could
no longer open important files without an encryption code—a code known only to
the originator of the virus. Supposedly, for a ransom fee, the hacker will
provide the code, but it is suspected that any interaction with the hacker will
merely open the door to more infections.
Someone did what employees
have been trained not to do: open a file attachment from an unknown source. Apparently
there was one person who broke this safety rule at each of several companies. Perhaps
they thought, what are the chances of this doing harm? As a result, “business
as usual” halted.
On a more personal level, we
may know not to open suspicious email attachments, but where we might slip or
struggle is with being steadfast in living a life on godly principles. The
battle between the flesh and the spirit is intense. We do what we know we
shouldn’t—what we don’t even want to do.
The devil dangles temptation
in front of us and taunts with smooth talking, “Go ahead. What harm will this
little sin bring you?” The consequence of sin is death, unless the ransom is
paid. Thank God that His Son Jesus paid the ransom in full, that we can
continue not only with the business of life as usual, but with joy and
confidence in eternal life.
Thank you for suffering
on the cross to pay the ransom for my sin.
© 2013 Nance
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