Cute Sin?

I must admit that it was kinda' cute when my 18 month old first started to tell me "no." With this long draw and sheepish look the word would slowly come out of his mouth. It is quickly, however, losing its luster. The long draw has become abrupt and sure, while the sheepish look is often replaced with a scowl--not so cute anymore.

Sin isn't cute. Oh, it might start off that way--tempting us to crack a smile at its touch of rebellion--but it can quickly become a beast. Sadly, the world in which we find ourselves paints a very different picture. Media portrays certain things--things that God declares an abomination--as right and good. Influential people speak deceptive words in an effort to convince us our convictions are wrong. We must return to that which is firm--wisdom from God on High.

I love a portion of scripture found in Proverbs 8, "The Lord possessed me (wisdom) at the beginning of His way, before His works of old. I have been established from everlasting, from the beginning, before there was ever an earth." (vv. 22-23) When God created, He designed life based upon His own character--His own wisdom. This is our foundation for understanding life--the wisdom of God.

The passage continues, "For whoever finds me (wisdom) finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord; But he who sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love death." (vv. 35-36) Do you see the black and white nature of this concept? Finding wisdom equals life, rejecting wisdom equals death. Period.

Moses summarized this concept when addressing the Israelites, "I have set before you life and death (referring to God's ways), blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live; that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days."

Friend, in Christ we have a choice. We are no longer a slave to sin. We have been set free from its power over us. We can now choose Who or what we will obey. It is not always easy. There are certain strongholds that seem insurmountable. What we have to learn as children of God is that we cannot overcome on our own--we must allow Him to do it through us. Reckon it so--believe it. From a "small" ill-spoken word about another to the prison of sexual perversion, sin will lead to our souls' death. Choose life.

For further nourishment: Proverbs 8:22-36; John 8:31-36; Romans 6:5-14

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