Just As I Am

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Just as I am, without one plea,
but that thy blood was shed for me,
 and that thou bidd'st me come to thee,
    O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
  2 Just as I am, and waiting not
to rid my soul of one dark blot,
                to thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot
 O Lamb of God, I come, I come
3 Just as I am, though tossed about
 with many a conflict, many a doubt,
  fightings and fears within, without
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
 4 Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
  wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
because thy promise I believe,
                                   O Lamb of God, I come, I come.


     The author of this beautiful hymn, Charlotte Elliott was an invalid for over fifty years. Apparently an unknown illness took her health in her early adulthood and she was no longer able to even leave her home.  In 1836 her brother was beginning a school for clergymen's daughters. There was to be a big fundraiser and everyone Charlotte knew was helping in some way.  She was discouraged because she was physically unable to help as she wished. She was left at home in her room, alone.  God brought to mind a conversation with man of God who had encouraged her to come to Jesus, despite her feelings of unworthiness and inadequacy, "Come to Christ just as you are."  This was the inspiration behind the hymn, "Just As I Am."  Charlotte went on to write over 150 hymns and they were compiled in several booklets, specifically encouraging invalids and those stricken by illness. "Just As I Am," with its easy to understand message, was used by many great evangelists around the world, including D.L. Moody and Billy Graham.

    When it comes to salvation, we can encourage anyone, anywhere, in any situation that God will accept them just as they are.  Jesus met the woman at the well, He redeemed Rahab and Ruth, He called Matthew, the tax collector, to be one of His chosen ones, He saved the thief on the cross! Yes, Jesus will meet each person right where they are, and exchange their filth for His own righteousness. Not a single one of us is worthy to stand before the Holy Creator of All apart from Jesus.  He meets every one, "Just as You Are" and leads you into His fold, where there is peace and forgiveness in abundance.   

`This past week I was blessed to travel to the headquarters of Revive Our Hearts women's ministry.  Similar to Charlotte Elliott, I struggle with feelings of unworthiness and inadequacy. This trip was no different.  However, God met me there.  Through the training sessions, the informational meetings, the prayer and worship times, I was reminded that God uses each of us, right where we are, to build His Kingdom.  He has given each of us a mission field.  We are all called to bring what we have and lay it at His feet, where He will take these seemingly insignificant offerings and accomplish His purpose with them. Jesus can use me, "just as I am." I am excited to share more from this time of learning with you in the weeks ahead. 

    Whether you need encouragement to bring your sins to the feet of Jesus, or are struggling with feelings of inadequacy in service for Him, I want you to know that Jesus invites you to come, "just as you are."  His arms are open and His heart can hear the cry of your heart. Open yourselves to His call and take His hand. He will lead you.  Start in the Word of God. 

    If you have any questions, please reach out to the leadership of our church.  Any of them would love to show you from God's Word the love Jesus has for you. Come. Just as you are!

Soli Deo Gloria,

💓 Heather Sparks 💓


    

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