Redemption's Riddle

“Wherefore should I fear in the days of evil, when the iniquity of my heels [fig. steps עָקֵב `aqeb] shall compass me about?  They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him… But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for He shall receive me” (Psalm 49:5-15).  “Every word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him” (Proverbs 30:5).  “Who is this that forgiveth sins?” (Luke 7:49).

The Word of God today reveals

That judgment days are yet ahead

When every footstep of my heels

Is known, but wherefore should I dread?

There is a deadly confidence

As many boast in fleeting wealth,

Unmindful of the great expense

Christ paid for our eternal health. 

They think the riches they disperse,

Which many of their friends applaud,

Exempts them from the dreadful curse

Recorded in the Law of God. 

How great thus is their poverty,

For there is only ONE exemption

That cleanses all iniquity: 

In Christ ALONE is there redemption!  

I do not need to fear the grave

Since I have been redeemed by Christ,

And all who trust in Him He’ll save;  

To this end He was sacrificed! 

Now who is this who thus forgives

And has redeemed me from my sin?

Behold, my Savior ever lives

Who saved me when He entered in!

How great, Lord, was this price involved

By which I know I am redeemed! 

Redemption’s riddle has been solved

By love much greater than I dreamed!