My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: — 1 John 2:1

God despises sin. Don’t you? I know I do. But isn’t it strange how we keep falling into the same old traps? Here, John, who was a kind Shepherd, hits the nail right on the head. The goal is to not make a single mistake. But because John knows how hard it is to fight the flesh, he also gives hope to those of us who are trying to live good lives. He wants us to know that God’s Son, who died as a sacrifice for our sins, is also our defense attorney who declares us innocent by his blood when we do sin. So, let’s get closer to Jesus. Let’s start each day by letting him into our hearts. Let’s believe that his power and grace will keep us going and get us through. When we do, he will!

 

Thought

God despises sin. Don’t you? I know I do. But isn’t it strange how we keep falling into the same old traps? Here, John, who was a kind Shepherd, hits the nail right on the head. The goal is to not make a single mistake. But because John knows how hard it is to fight the flesh, he also gives hope to those of us who are trying to live good lives. He wants us to know that God’s Son, who died as a sacrifice for our sins, is also our defense attorney who declares us innocent by his blood when we do sin. So, let’s get closer to Jesus. Let’s start each day by letting him into our hearts. Let’s believe that his power and grace will keep us going and get us through. When we do, he will!

 

Prayer

God, no one and nothing is like you. I did not have to provide the sacrifice for my sins. Even though my transgressions crushed your heart, you gave that sacrifice. Please use me today as I strive to offer myself, my life, and my future back to you as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to you as I try to say thank you for your grace. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.