Just As I Am
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Self Improvement -> subcategory Spirituality.
Just As I Am
Title:
Just As I Am
Summary:
The hymn "Just As I Am" begins with the powerful lines:
"Just as I am, without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come."
This cherished hymn is famously used as an "invitational song" at church services, notably during Billy Graham's Crusades. However, the intriguing story behind its creation might be unfamiliar to many.
Keywords:
Encouragement, inspiration
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Article Body:
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
"Just as I am, without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come."
(Words by Charlotte Elliott, 1835. Music by William B. Bradbury, 1849)
This beloved hymn has touched countless hearts due to its frequent use in churches and at Billy Graham Crusades. Yet, many might not know the inspiring story behind its creation.
In "My Life and the Story of the Gospel Hymns," Ira David Sankey recounts that Charlotte Elliott, while visiting friends in London's West End, met the notable minister Csar Malan. At supper, he inquired about her faith, which she found offensive at first. However, his words lingered, and when they met again weeks later, Elliott expressed her desire to find her Savior. Dr. Malan advised her to come to Him just as she was. This advice not only transformed Elliott's life but also inspired her to write this hymn.
Consider the impact: Charlotte Elliott, saved through the simple message to "come as you are," penned a hymn that has led many others to Christ.
Although Charlotte Elliott wrote over 150 hymns, this one remains the most recognized. Her brother once remarked that the impact of this hymn far exceeded his own ministry efforts.
Both Charlotte Elliott and her hymn seemed destined by God to guide lost souls to Jesus Christ. Let’s explore its profound message:
"Just as I am, without one plea"
The word "plea" carries both legal and everyday meanings. It can mean an earnest request or an excuse. Legally, it refers to a defendant's answer or justification. Spiritually, we have no plea for our salvation:
"Once you were dead, doomed forever because of your many sins..." (Ephesians 2:1-3 NLT)
We were guilty?"case closed. But then, there's this:
"But that Thy blood was shed for me."
Hebrews tells us, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness." (9:22 NIV) John 3:18 reminds us that belief in Him frees us from judgment, while those who do not believe are already condemned.
Without Christ, we are guilty. With Him, guilt is erased, for God promises, "I will never again remember their sins." (Hebrews 8:12)
"And that Thou bidst me come to Thee"
The word "bidst" implies commanding, inviting, or offering. In our spiritual journey, God actively invites us to His embrace, as seen in the parables of the lost sheep, coin, and prodigal son. He offers something incomparable?"Christ's sacrifice for our sins.
“For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger..." (Romans 3:25 NLT)
Before we sought God, He was already seeking us.
Through faith in Jesus, God does everything:
"People are declared righteous because of their faith." (Romans 4:4-5 NLT)
"Just as I am," with all my conflicts and doubts, God welcomes, pardons, and cleanses.
John the Baptist proclaimed Jesus as the Lamb of God who removes sin:
"Look! There is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29 NLT)
If you yearn to come to Christ like Charlotte Elliott, heed Dr. Malan's advice: "Just come to Him as you are."
Love,
Brother Bill
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Just As I Am.
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