Leviticus 4:1-5:19; Mark 2:13-3:6; Psalm 36:1-12; Proverbs 10:1-2
Sin arises in our lives when there is no fear of God. Most people assume that we can fall into sin! That somehow, sin sneaks up on us and ensnares us. But, sin does not work like that. Sin is a persistent temptation to walk away from God’s way and do things our way. Sin suggests pathways to disobey God and circumvent His plans!
Sin starts as a whisper in our ear but it ends up screaming at us. Sin can wear us down if we continue to let it speak to us– tempting us to act against God’s ways! Left unchecked, sin will invade our whole existence and cause us to do things that bring shame on us, our families and God.
In the Old Testament, they brought all types of offerings to satisfy their sin debt. But, it never lasted more than a day. The very next day, new sacrifices had to be offered for their sins. This was perpetual.
What gives us the strength to say “no” to sin and “yes” to God? His unfailing love!! That seems so strange! It’s not God’s judgment that causes us to walk away from our sin, it is God’s love!!! Why? Because love is who God is! When we are exposed to His love, it changes everything.
If you are dealing with a persistent sin problem and you really want to be free, get a good mental image of God wrapping His arms around you and telling you, like only a loving Father can, “I love you.” God’s love will drive out all temptations. We find our freedom from sin in the Love of God as shown by Jesus.
Tomorrow’s Reading: Leviticus 6:1-7:27; Mark 3:7-30; Psalm 37:1-11; Proverbs 10:3-4