Standing Against Sin

 So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin. James 4:17

Do you have an intense desire to sin?

I’m guessing no. Not many people do.

If that’s so, then why do we sin? Or why are we more apt to sin when surrounded by others who sin?

Because when one is in the midst of those who allow themselves to sin, our minds have one of two reactions: we either abhor it, wanting to run away or we smile, beginning to allow our minds acceptance. Enjoyment even.

It’s as if our minds begin to embrace sin when influenced by others around us.

If everyone around us enjoys partaking, it can’t be that bad, right?

Our flesh begins to agree and before you know it, we are full on sinning just like the others.

Doesn’t matter if you’re a Christian or not.

Doesn’t matter if you believe in the fruits of the Spirit or not.

Doesn’t matter if you pray or not.

Sin affects everyone. And its temptations lurk around every corner.

Knowing this, what’s the solution? The antidote?

To be aware. To recognize tempting situations, staying far away.

To share sinful behavior with the necessary authority, breaking the code of friendship.

Enjoying the sin of others, yet staying silent?

You’re guilty.

Know what is coming, yet say nothing at all?

You’re also guilty.

That’s the sin of omission.

When you intentionally neglect to do something you are obligated to do.

The sin of commission is doing the deed.

So, back to the original question: When a situation presents itself, do you have an intense desire to sin, or do you simply sit back and do nothing?

Stand for God’s truth. Stand for what’s right. And go and sin no more.

Photos by Papaioannou KostasCamylla BattaniJustice Amoh, & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Christmas Rush

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men! Luke 2:14

Why is it this time of year seems to cause armfuls of stress?

Anyone else feel the pressure to buy everyone and their dog the perfect gift?

Anyone else feel pressured to provide all things to all people, creating perfect Christmas card memories?

And why is that?

Keeping up with the neighbors. Our friends. The entire world.

Expectations of ourselves, others, and the day.

What’s interesting is Jesus’ birth was so not complicated.

Mary and Joseph did not make the perfect reservation weeks in advance for the best room.

The angels did not record their songs, capturing the perfect moment for their social media.

The shepherds did not rehearse their reaction for perfect timing, nor did they have a Christmas outfit to celebrate the new King.

Everything just happened.

Mary and Joseph found what they could.

The angels broke out in song when they could no longer hold back.

The shepherds simply ran to the manger, wearing what they had on at the time.

And Jesus came amid it all.

Peace on earth is more than a silent night.

Peace on earth begins in your heart, surrendered to God and God alone.

When your heart is His, nothing else matters.

His peace can reign within, no matter what else churns around you.

Do the Christmas things. Have fun while you’re at it.

But keep God’s peace above all else.

Because nothing else matters, but Him.

Photos by Deep DoshiRaymond PetrikTj Holowaychuk, & Greyson Joralemon on Unsplash