If you’re in denial, DON’T READ THIS!

“I’m not as bad as other people I’ve met.” “Things could be a lot worse.”

Sin is sin. God doesn’t grade our sin from “bad” to “really bad”. When we miss the mark, (according to God’s standard), we sin. Our sin should heighten our awareness of our desperate need of His grace.

“We will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written: ‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’ So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” Romans 14:10-12 (NIV)

The message of sin and accountability is not a popular one. Many people don’t like to hear how they fail God. Many are not pleased with the prospect of being accountable to anyone, let alone a holy God. It really doesn’t matter how we justify our sin, God is real, heaven and hell are real, and eternity is a long time. ALL of us will stand before God and give an account of our lives.

For the one in denial of sin, his master’s message is that of deceit and a continual lust for more. Lust cannot be satisfied. According to Galatians 6:7-8, if we sow to the flesh, we will reap the results…destruction.

It is sad to see the eyes of men, even those I have called brothers, grow blinded to the things of God. Unfortunately, it is not surprising. Our adversary fights relentlessly twenty-four hours a day for our destruction. If we call ourselves Christians, we should know we cannot serve two masters. Yet we continue in our sin. When we choose to sin, we are walking away from God.

Guard your hearts and minds. Many are falling prey to satan’s advances. We have to draw a line in the sand and actively take up a defensive posture. We must protect ourselves, our families, and our relationships with others and Christ. As the Scriptures say, we must be vigilant, lest we too become deceived.

“Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Ephesians 6:10-18 (NLT)