Written by Cindy Smith
“Just as I am without one plea, but that thy blood was shed for me. To Thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot, O Lamb of God I come, I come!” This song has been sung for several centuries, yet still rings true to the heart of the believer. When someone comes to Christ, they must come: “Just as they are.” This means with a heart of humility and remorse for sins committed. That soul can then find: “pardon, cleanse, and relieve.” Mankind was born with a desire to want to love and serve God.
Charlotte Elliot was born in Brighton, England in 1789 in the month of March. She was raised by her father and mother along with five siblings. Her father was a silk merchant and her mother, the granddaughter of a minister during the “Great Awakening.” Charlotte was highly educated and gravitated towards music and art. During the first thirty-two years, she circled in high society where religion was not found. Sickness came knocking at her door, which caused depression and made her realize her mortality. A doctor, that was a friend of the family, had inquired if she had made peace with God and told her: “Come just as you are.” Charlotte had rejected God, knew she was a sinner, and needed forgiven by God. The lyrics to this song were penned when she was in her forties after she finally found Salvation. This song has been written in many languages around the world and has influenced many souls to come to Christ.
How is it with you? Have you “rid your soul of one dark blot” and “broken every barrier down?” Christ told Nicodemus “ye must be born again.” (John 3:7) Salvation will change you and your life. Ezekiel 36:26 speaks of the old heart being taken out and a new heart being put within you. We need God and His salvation. The soul that comes with a contriteness and remorse will not be rejected. He asks that we serve Him and love Him above all else. One of the last stanzas states: “Now to be Thine, yea, Thine alone, O Lamb of God I come, I come!” Let that be the desire of your heart and God will be faithful to lead and guide you throughout your life.
