Many Christians avoid the Old Testament. They read about judgments and curses, and they feel afraid. They worry that God will punish them for their failures.

Read the Old Covenant through the lens of the finished work of Jesus.

"Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree')." Galatians 3:13 (NKJV)

This finished work is represented by the Greek word (tetelestai) τετέλεσται — "it is finished."

Imagine a stamp that says "PAID" in red ink. Every page of the law and every curse for disobedience has this stamp over it. Jesus paid the debt.

When you read about the curses in Deuteronomy, you do not need to fear. You can thank God that Jesus took those curses for you. You are free to enjoy the stories and lessons of the Old Testament without condemnation.

Read the Old Covenant with confidence, because Jesus already paid every debt it demands.