Redeemed: December 2023 Scripture Writing Plan

She had lost her husband.

She had debts to pay.

She was on the brink of disaster.

As a means of reclaiming what he was owed, the creditor was on his way over to take her two children into slavery. In desperation, this widow cried out to Elisha, the prophet, for help. He had her take the only thing she had left–a jar of oil–and commanded her to fill as many empty vessels as she could find or borrow with the oil. The oil kept on multiplying until all the jars were filled. With that miraculous abundance, she was able to pay her debts and her children remained free. God, through Elisha, had redeemed her children from the sentences of slavery, and repayed the crushing debt she herself could not cover. (Read 2 Kings 4.1-7 for the full account)

Has the Lord done something like that for you?

Redemption has several definitions, and it is fascinating how God has done (and continues to do) all these things for us. Consider these definitions from Merriam Webster (parenthetical comments in orange are mine):

• to buy back or repurchase (God created us. Sin enslaved us. Jesus redeems us!)
• to free from what distresses or harms (Jesus freed us from the distressing and harmful effects of our sin):
  • a) to free from captivity by payment of a ransom (paid our ransom with His sacrifice)
  • b) to extricate from or help overcome something detrimental (freed us from the suffering, death, and eternal condemnation of our sins)
  • c) to release from blame or debt (satisfied the wrath and judgment of God)
  • d) to free from the consequences of sin
• to change for the better (Jesus is transforming us into His likeness)
• to repair or restore (Jesus brings healing to our souls)
• to exchange for something of value (The blood of Jesus was offered in exchange for our souls)
• to atone for (Jesus sacrifice atoned for our sin)
• to offset the bad effect of
• to make worthwhile (Jesus makes our lives worthwhile)

The world tries to convince us we’re “all good,” we can “live our truth,” and “do it our way,” with the subtle implication that there won’t be negative consequences. However, the reality is quite different. Without Jesus, life is meaningless. Without Jesus, our souls are mangled. Without Jesus, eternity will be unendurable. Because of Jesus, we can have meaning, wholeness, and enduring joy.

It is only through Jesus that we are redeemed. I am so thankful He came to earth in order to rescue us. As we copy this month’s scriptures, consider the ways in which God has redeemed others and what joy comes with being redeemed by the blood of Jesus.

To download a printable copy of this month’s plan, click the link below:

For your littlest scripture writers, Sara McBroom has provided copying and tracing sheets! Click the links below to download:

I know the holidays are hectic and its not always easy to keep up with the copying, but I hope you’ll join us in considering these scriptures and giving thanks to the Lord for all He has done for us. Visit me on Facebook and/or Instagram (@elihuscorner) for posts on these scriptures throughout the month!