Tag Archives: sin

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”  (Galatians 6:7, NKJV)

We need to beware of thinking — as most of the world does — that because we have “gotten by” that we have, “gotten away.”

We sin, but because we have not immediately suffered the consequences of our sin, we wrongly think that God’s law is on holiday.  This is akin to thinking that just because we have, somehow, avoided being pulled-over by the sheriff for exceeding the speed limit, that it is somehow okay to exceed the speed limit.

Don’t be fooled. The God’s law stands forever!

God’s commandments are for our protection, and for our provision.  Just because we are successful in flouting God’s law does not mean that we are wise.  We shall be called to give an accounting, whether in joy because we have obeyed; or in tears, because we have been found wanting.  – Luther

Tagged , , , , ,

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but live in the fear of the Lord always.”  (Proverbs 23:17, NASB)

The sinner does not regard the law of the Lord as applicable to him; nor does he consider valid the instructions of his Creator.  The fact is this: We all have been active sinners; dismissive of God’s law and disdainful of His rightful authority.

Are we tempted to envy those we see cruising on sin’s easy boulevard while we endure the inconveniences of the narrow moral road?   Yes!  We feel the tug because of our humanity.  However, we were created for grander purposes.  Do not give-up; and do not give-in to envy.

To “live in the fear of the Lord” is to continuously mindful of the things that matter to the Lord — and to allow your heart to follow the Spirit’s leading.  – Luther

 

Tagged , , ,

“So then, if we do not do the good we know we should do, we are guilty of sin.”  (James 4:17, Good News Translation)

You will not find a more simple, direct, or pure definition of sin than what is written in today’s scripture verse.

This definition does not cover all sin, but it does address what we refer to as “sins of omission”: Knowing but not doing.  Following this principle, it might also be said that we sin when we have but do not share what we have with others.

James’ letter is, I think, the most practical book in the New Testament.  It addresses the common issues of our life as disciples of Jesus, and is well worth the 15 minutes or so it would take a slow reader (like myself) to cover its five, short, chapters.

James reminds us that we need not sin.  – Luther

Tagged ,