The expression ‘red tape’ describes the annoying way that bureaucracy often prevents things from getting done. Originally the phrase referred to the common practice of binding official documents with red ribbon. In the early 1800s the term was made popular by the writings of Scottish historian Thomas Carlyle, who was protesting that the government was ‘dragging its feet’. Commonly the problem of ‘red tape’ occurs after wars as soldiers struggle to receive their benefits. The term expresses frustration and disappointment because of the unjust burdens it places on individuals.

Bureaucratic red tape is almost everywhere, but there is one place in the universe where it’s never an issue—the throne of God. In Romans 5:2, Paul tells us about Christ, “through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand”. When our hearts are broken or our lives are troubled, there is no red tape hindering our access to God. Jesus Christ has paved the way so that we can have access to enter boldly into the presence of the King of heaven (Heb. 4:16).

Remember, when you are hurting, you don’t have to cut through a lot of red tape to present your needs to God. Through Christ, we have full and immediate access.

Author

Bill Crowder

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