“Return to the Lord your God, who is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.” Joel 2:13
I hate sin. I mean I hate my sin. Sure, I hate sin generally but my own sin I really despise - mostly because no matter how hard I try not to sin I still do. No matter how much I love God and want to follow him, I still fall short.
Someone asked me recently if I thought there was anyone in the world, who having faith in Jesus, doesn’t sin. Well, I haven’t met everyone in the world, and I have no way of know what is in a person’s heart, but I do know three things - I trust in Christ and I still sin, AND I hate my sin - and that seems to be the key.
Those born of God do not make a practice of sinning - they do not habitually and willingly sin. They regretfully fall into sin and will earnestly seek God’s forgiveness - much like the ancient people of Israel were pulled away from God by the world, but returned to him with repentant hearts.
If we take pieces of scripture in isolation it can appear that IF a person has faith they will no longer sin AT ALL, and if they do their faith is suspect. However, we must look at the overall narrative of scripture - highfalutin stuff her: we must let scripture norm (explain) scripture. Overall we see a few things:
God commands us to follow the Law; it is the standard he sets.
Despite our best efforts, we cannot keep the Law.
God forgives those who are truly repentant and have faith in Christ.
So if you are struggling with sin, be grateful that God is gracious and merciful and that the Holy Spirit continues to convict your heart. When your sin no longer bothers then you need to really start worrying. So do not lose hope. Just like pain is a reminder you’re still alive, a contrite heart is a reminder that God still cares and waits for your return.
Prayer: Lord God, I know I often fall short of your glory no matter how hard I try not to do so. But I thank you that you are merciful and kind and that you have given me forgiveness through Christ Jesus. Keep me from falling into complacency with my sin and help me to seek your will always. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.