I will cling to the Old Rugged Cross
And Exchange it someday for a Crown.
“He made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 NASB
When we come to the cross in repentance and faith, trusting Christ’s sacrifice to be payment for our sin, we exchange our sinful nature for a righteous nature that only comes in that “Great Exchange”.
“In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:8
What is your motivation in the Christian life? When we accept Jesus’ free gift of salvation, are we to just sit on our laurels and look like happy church going, Jesus followers?
We are to be busy about the kingdom purposes! Read Colossians 3:23-25. ” Whatever you do work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”
“The person you are today will determine the rewards you will receive tomorrow!” Dr Lutzer’s thesis for his book, Your Eternal Reward: Triumph and Tears at the Judgment Seat of Christ
“Every day we live is either a loss or a gain so far as our future judgment is concerned.” Dr. Erwin Lutzer.
How is your life measuring up for the day we meet Jesus face to face? Will you be “ashamed at His coming?
“Now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming.” I John 2:28
Cling to the old rugged cross … but remember one day you will receive a crown if we live our life pleasing Him.
Build on gold, silver and precious stones.
https://youtu.be/Fa1afzmDL1Q
Alan Jackson sings The Old Rugged Cross
