Casual Sin – Paula Hill
“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts” (Romans 6:12). “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
Sin is a subject that is open to many different interpretations in today’s society. I worked with a precious Christian lady many years ago whose son-in-law, among other things, was a very heavy drinker. He would not even think about attending church. She worried about him a great deal and, on many occasions, she would say to me,“He is saved, but just not walking as close to the Lord as he should be.” From his actions, there seemed to be no Christian fruit in this young man’s life, and from all indications, he had no desire to even attempt to live a life for Christ.
Some folks say you have to sin a little every day and some say you should never sin at all. It’s common to place sin in categories such as “big” sins and “little” sins. Some say, “Oh, I know God understands; I don’t sin that much.” Of course, God understands we aren’t perfect, but we must always strive to live a pure life before Him. God sees a true and repentant heart.Throughout the Bible, sin is described as evil committed against God. Sin is represented as evil, because it is dishonoring to the heavenly Father.
Are we guilty of putting sin in the same category in which we place everything else in our daily lives? We dress appropriately for the situation — work clothes, church clothes, casual clothes, and business casual. Whatever type of clothes fit the occasion is what we wear. Is that the way God expects us to treat sin?
Is there such a thing as “casual sin?” Are there sins that we should feel comfortable with? Are there sins that we put on and take off until the next time we want to wear them? God forbid that we take that approach to sin!With this approach, it is easy to become desensitized, and it is easier and easier to accept sin as being normal. Repetitiveness takes away the initial sense of wrong and guilt.
The good news about sin is that God is willing to forgive us when we fail Him. He never turns His back on us or walks away, but He stands near, willing to forgive and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. God always provides forgiveness when we ask sincerely.
Paula’s Prayer
Lord, thank You that when I sin,You are faithful to forgive. But help me never to take Your forgiveness for granted. Place in me a desire to live a pure life before You. I know I’ll fail sometimes, I’m not perfect, but help me to be quick to humble myself and repent.
Amen.