Some Christians believe that because our past sins and future sins have been forgiven they can get away with sin. It’s true when God forgives he “remembers our sins no more (Hebrews 8:12; 10: 17),” however he doesn’t magically wipe out the consequences of our actions. There is always cause and effect. In biblical terminology it means we reap what we sow.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap. For he that sows to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that sows to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Galatians 6:7-9
In our hearts we know this. We say…
– What goes around comes around.
– Things come back to haunt you.
– Your sins will find you out.
– You play; you pay.
Some may put off developing a relationship with Christ feeling they want time to “sow their wild oats.” After all, won’t God forgive us? Yes, he will. We are forgiven for our sins but there is an aftermath. Sin is like driving a nail through your hand. Forgiveness pulls the nail out and allows healing, but it doesn’t take away the pain or the scar that remains.
Abusing our bodies shortens our lifespan. Going against our conscience leaves the mind dull, impacting our ability to make wise decisions. Repeatedly losing self-control results in anger, envy, outbursts, cruelty, and so on. Giving into what we know is wrong time and time again results in developing bad habits that become a part of who we are. This hinders us from living the full and abundant life God desires for us.
Many think God sits in heaven looking for sinners to zap with an electrical shock. He doesn’t have to do that. Sin carries its own “reward.” It’s like drinking slow poison. Eventually it all catches up with you. In the end no one gets away with sin. Not because of a vengeful God, but because we reap what we sow.
