Christ's Cross AS A KEY

But I will give him the key to the house of David— the highest position in the royal court. When he opens doors, no one will be able to close them; when he closes doors, no one will be able to open them. ~ Isaiah 22:22 NLT
 
When Jesus Christ died on the Cross and rose again, eternal doors which had been locked, suddenly became open to those who would love him and obey his word. Jesus responded to Peter’s revelation of Christ’s true identity as Messiah with this promise in Matthew 16:19, “And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.”

Since we have access to these formidable keys, which doors do they open and which do they lock? The primary work of the “key” of the Cross is to open the door to eternal life with Jesus, and lock the door to death’s fear and power over us.

The work of the Cross also closes the door of sins power to control us. The glorious door of freedom from condemnation (Rom.8:1) is unlocked. Along with that comes access to God’s favor and grace. Jesus promises that, as we pray in his name, Father God answers our prayers.

The Cross opens the door of spiritual transformation. We were once stuck, imprisoned in hopelessness and despair. Now we enjoy having the mind of Christ and begin our journey of becoming all that Father God created us to be. His purposes and plans for our lives are suddenly released and we are flooded with the light of his truth and the hope of future glory with God. The roots of our hearts begin to grow roots deep into God’s love and we enjoy a deep sense of belonging and worth.

My favorite door that is opened in the Cross is access to God’s presence and the promise of joy in his presence forever! As I confidently enter God’s presence to receive his mercy and grace (Heb.4:16), I lock the door of anxiety and worry about the future behind me.

What door is God asking you to unlock by faith in your life? Which needs to be closed? Step into the authority you have been given in Christ. Believe the marvelous truth that, with the Holy Spirit’s help, you can open and shut doors in your life as you align with God’s promises and purposes. Thank God for the Cross of Christ and the powerful “key” it becomes to access the “full and satisfying life” Jesus promises us. (Jn.10:10)

Dear friend, be blessed as you ask God what doors need opening and locking in your spiritual life. You were designed to be a blessing to others and live a full, satisfying and fruitful life. Is there something that may be blocking that?  Ask the Holy Spirit to increase your faith to believe that all of God’s plans are for you are good. He invites you into partnership with his Son Jesus (1 Cor.1:9) and he has already given you the keys you will need. Be blessed as you joyfully receive them. Amen.

Mary Sumner ~ February 24, 2021