Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?
Romans 6:1−2 NKJV
God is the perfect parent. He cannot ignore His children’s bad behavior because: (1) sins not dealt with will worsen; (2) pursuing sinful pleasure never satisfies—it leaves us craving more; and (3) sin has consequences, which can be permanent. Thus God disciplines us, not because He is mad or condemning, but for our good (see Hebrews 12:4–11).
God told King Solomon if the nation sinned and God punished them, they should do three things—humble themselves, pray and seek God, and turn from wickedness. Then God would do three things—hear, forgive, and heal the land (see 2 Chronicles 7:14). If our country seems to be suffering from effects of God’s wrath (anger over sin), it is not unbelievers but the “people called by His name” who must turn from wicked ways and humbly seek God.
However, many Christians live as if God imposes no standards: we have freedom in Christ, and God is all about grace. Yes, but we must not treat God’s grace lightly. Can a child of God attend church and hear the Bible taught but also sleep with her boyfriend, dress provocatively to attract men, not report all taxable income, abuse harmful substances, hold a grudge? If she does, she can expect dissatisfaction, sin’s consequences, and God’s discipline. Paradoxically, pursuing God’s pleasure, not our own, actually satisfies our deep longings.
Lord God, I’m sorry I sometimes think sin is no big deal. Help me to be so alive to Christ that my behavior matches my beliefs. Amen.
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Today’s reading was adapted from Daily Wisdom for Women: 2017 Devotional Collection with permission from Barbour Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading was written by Marcia Hornok.