February 20, 2022 . . . . .

In the Old Testament, Leviticus, Chapter 18, has several verses in which God tells Moses His expectations for the people’s conduct, in particular their sexual conduct. He makes it clear what is not acceptable. In today’s world, many people have ignored those expectations and come to accept that which is unacceptable according to God. Was God saying these things only to the Israelites or do they also apply to us today? As followers of the New Testament, we are told to love our neighbor as ourselves in Mark 12:31. But, then in Romans Chapter 1, Paul writes that there are several things we should understand which are considered ungodliness and unrighteousness and that can invoke the wrath of God. There are two sides to God, one that loves the faithful and one that punishes sin. Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” That is why He sent Jesus Christ to us. I Corinthians 6:9-11 reminds us that, as sinners, we can be washed, sanctified, and justified by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. Our world has made us believe our sins are not our fault, but are the fault of other’s influence on us. How do I stop sinning? The answer is Jesus Christ who can fix whatever we are doing wrong. Confess to God and ask Him to help you. Pray that God helps you love Him more than the addictions with which you are struggling. Be honest with yourself, pray for each other, and confess your sins. Say to God the words in Psalm 51:10 “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” And then follow through with what you know He would have you do.