Lord, Don't Give Us What We Deserve?

Screenshot from the Jesus Film

Lately I have been hearing many people ask in prayer that God not give them what they deserve. While I know what they mean when they prayed this, something did not sit well with me. What I assume people are meaning with this statement is, "Lord, we see sin in our own lives and we know that you are holy. Your justice demands punishment. Do not punish us." This sounds humble and contrite, but it is a lie from the enemy to keep us from having confidence as we approach God.

Here is what I mean. Look at the picture above. Who is on the cross? Jesus. What was He doing there? Paying the penalty for our sins. Does he have to go again to the cross? No. I'm sorry for the simple logic, but it is important to get us to know that there is no more judgment left for us. When we placed our lives in Christ, we exchanged our lives for His. All of the negative behaviors, thoughts, and attitudes were placed with Christ on the cross. They are forever taken care of. Therefore, we have no more fear of condemnation or judgment of sins (Romans 8:1). We can now boldly enter the throne room of God with confidence because we are now hidden in Christ (Hebrews 4:16).

AND, all of the blessings that are for Christ are also bestowed on us. We are blessed in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ (Ephesians 1:3). Now then, what do we who are in Christ deserve? We deserve all rights and privileges that are set aside for the sons and daughters of promise. He who has given us His only Son, will He not also freely give us all things? (Romans 8:32)!!!

How much does this thought change how you approach God? We can come with confidence knowing that we have what we ask.