"In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace." Ephesians 1:7 (ESV)

Redemption is an all-time cool word. Love this word with me. I know all teams, coaches, players, men and women should love this word.

When true redemption comes, all oppression, defeat and undue performance pressures cease. Sin, guilt and shame no longer hold claim to us.

Deliverance, emancipation, rescue, restoration, and even sweet revenge arrive to stay. Chains break, prisoners bolt, people reconcile and relationships are restored. Hostages are released. Great new stories are birthed.

That's how powerful redemption really is.

Today's Scripture shows us three surefire ways to experience redemption.

Redemption is found in a PERSON. Scripture here says, "... in WHOM we have redemption." The world tells us that redemption is found elsewhere.

But God says that deliverance is found through deliverers. The ultimate deliverer is our ultimate Redeemer, Jesus.

Redemption is found in BLOOD: shed blood. Ultimate redemption is found in perfect, powerful, priceless blood -- the purifying blood of Jesus. That blood restores and buys us back to God when sin, selfishness, Satan and this world cart us off as slaves.

Redemption is found in FORGIVENESS. It rides best on the wings of forgiveness and provides our way out of prison. Christ's blood is the costly ransom payment that builds a bridge to redemption, offering forever forgiveness to us.

As you and I receive His forgiveness, and as we forgive ourselves and others in the way He has forgiven us, we cross “The Forgiveness Bridge” to real redemption and the ultimate deliverance and freedom we long for.

Reflect: So love this word and its story with me! Remember where to find your redemption. Keep experiencing its deliverance, freedom, life and power again and again with me.