Ransomed

1 Peter 1:18-19 ESV says, “You were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.” The truth is that there is no earthly resource capable of redeeming humanity from the futility of sin.

Money buys off, but the blood of Christ transforms.

The Limitation of Wealth

There is no question that wealth can open doors and make things happen. For the wealthiest people in the world, nothing is out of reach. We live in a generation where individual billionaires are taking flights into outer space and living like royalty.

Still, not one asset of the wealthy will exist into eternity. These are all perishable tools. Sure, they provide comfort and excitement for the day-to-day, but they are not of eternal value.

Generational Curses

Peter talks about the futile ways we inherit from our generational line. We might call these things generational curses or strongholds. Because we live in a broken world, each of us comes into the world under patterns of brokenness and sin. Kids consistently follow the behavior of their parents unless there is an intervention.

On the outside, the accumulation of wealth seems to break off family patterns. Those who succeed seem to live beyond the struggles of their lineage, but money cannot still anger, and wealth cannot satisfy the desires of lust. And while there are certain things we can do to improve our lives and grow in wisdom like counseling, education, and mentorship, no perishable thing will restore a broken spirit.

The Power of Christ

There is only one thing that can restore us to wholeness: the precious blood of Christ.

Jesus, being God and one with God, came and put on flesh for the distinct purpose of giving his life as a ransom for humanity. On the cross, his death swallowed up death and the grave forever.

Now, when we stand under the blood of Jesus, we are washed clean and restored. Not on the outside in some superficial makeover. The blood of Jesus transforms us and ransoms us on the inside from the demonic strongholds we were born into. The power of Jesus brings generational transformation. Under the blood of the Lamb, sin and brokenness are overcome with holiness and life.

Today I invite you to meditate on these words. Let them find a root in your heart and begin to abide in your spirit. Consider the power of Christ’s blood to redeem and restore you, your family, and your legacy.