“Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”
James 1:15
Returning to James 1, we find that sin is not only present in every part of our lives, but it is presently getting worse. Think back to childhood where taking a forbidden cookie from the cookie jar was easily followed by lies spoken to the confronting parent. And we all know if a child gets away with it, they’re that much more likely to abscond with the cookies again!
Sin is not static in the Christian life. If left unchecked, it grows, even to the point of blocking out the life-nurturing rays of God’s glorious grace. Perhaps you’ve been in that place, where sins committed in darkness begin to choke out your life, even in the light of day. You see yourself giving way to contempt, callousness, and despair. Friend, know that sin’s wounds cry out for healing, not for indulgence!
As Christians, we need not be resigned to the unchecked growth of our sin. We have a Spirit within us who is putting our sin to death and making us more like Christ Jesus. He holds a crown of life before us, reminding us that, by God’s grace, we can persevere in our trials (v. 12).
Sin is not static in the Christian life. If left unchecked, it grows, even to the point of blocking out the life-nurturing rays of God’s glorious grace. Perhaps you’ve been in that place, where sins committed in darkness begin to choke out your life, even in the light of day. You see yourself giving way to contempt, callousness, and despair. Friend, know that sin’s wounds cry out for healing, not for indulgence!
As Christians, we need not be resigned to the unchecked growth of our sin. We have a Spirit within us who is putting our sin to death and making us more like Christ Jesus. He holds a crown of life before us, reminding us that, by God’s grace, we can persevere in our trials (v. 12).
Scripture Focus
James 1:12-15
Insight
Sin changes us for the worse, but God delights to change us for the better in Christ Jesus.
Bible In A Year
- 2 Chronicles 9-10
- Psalm 12
- Matthew 18