It was an echo. The words came initially from KJIL and the car radio as we traveled toward Wichita. But they kept reverberating in my mind. I realized I couldn’t have said it better myself.
“Where would I be if it wasn’t for the love of God?” Meaningful words from Andrew Ripp’s great song For The Love Of God.
I’ve thought about “where would I be” many times.
Back in the day my life was not headed in a good direction. I wasn’t on drugs. I wasn’t addicted to alcohol. I wasn’t running around on my wife. I didn’t beat my wife or kids. I hadn’t stolen anything. I hadn’t done any of the things commonly associated with badness.
But, I was lost. Despite my church upbringing I wasn’t sure there even was a God. If there was, why would He care about me?
I was like the verse in Romans Chapter 3 and verse 23, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” God has a pretty high standard: Perfection! I didn’t need anyone to tell me I fell short.
Later in Romans comes a verse in chapter 6, another verse 23. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Wages are something you earn. Gifts are something you are given.
I like verses with the word but. But, usually illustrates a stark contrast.
In my case the contrast was, here is where I am and this is where I’m headed. But, Romans 6.23 shows the alternative. “I have a gift for you,” God says. “I will see you as perfect through the sacrifice of my Son Jesus.”
“Where would I be” without that gift, that free gift?
I have no idea. But, it wouldn’t be good.
Here’s more of Andrew’s words.
Thank you, Andrew.
“And every time I think about, every time I thought was the end
I’m caught up in wonder again
Where would I be?
Where would I be if it wasn’t for the love of God?
If it wasn’t for the love of God
This song of victory is
Now mine to sing
Hallelujah for the love of God
Has set me free”
–Andrew Ripp
Have a great day!