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God knows the final balance
Yesterday we saw the God is evident even in creation. His existence cannot be denied. We have no excuse for saying that we didn’t know there is a God of this universe. But many choose not to honor Him and accept His work for themselves. That is the root of all sin.
Today we move a little deeper into looking at sin. We ended with the harsh reality that all sin is deserving of death. Now we are reminded again that judging one another is also sin. The main reason stated for this is that we are doing the same things we are judging others for.
If we are honest with ourselves we know this to be true. Have you ever pointed a finger at “sister so and so” because she is always ready to share everything she knows, especially the bad stuff, about her fellows yet been ready to share how reprehensible you find her behavior with your own fellows? You are now gossiping about the gossip. Pot calling the kettle black.
Paul hits right into the heart of this matter. “Do you suppose, O man – you who judge those who practice such thing and yet do them yourself – that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you presume on the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” (verses 3 & 4).
Do we really think God is going to look the other way on our sin but condemn others for the same thing? Sorry, what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. There is judgement, rightly deserved, for those who continue down this road. It doesn’t matter who you are, you will be held accountable for your actions.
But that is not the end of the story. God does show us His kindness, forbearance and patience when dealing with our sin. This grace is given to us at Christ’s expense. It isn’t free and it isn’t to be taken lightly. God willingly gives this to those who are serious in their repentance, including turning from their sin. Often it takes coming back to God and asking for forgiveness multiple times. But true repentance includes moving away from, avoiding, that sin more and more each time.
“He will render to each one according to his works” (verse 6). Good or bad it all has a result. God is the judge of our final outcome, not anyone else.
Father God, I know I have come to You repeatedly for areas in my life that are sin. I pray I am miles further away from them than I was the first time I brought it to You. I believe You prompted me to compare my anger issues over my life. I started to say, “I wonder if You impacted it”, but I KNOW You did. I still have issues with getting frustrated but nothing like I used to. Thank You for that God. I still roll my eyes at some of the “extra” calls from my husband but You have even softened my response there. THANK YOU LORD. I desire to show love not frustration or resentment.
Thank You Lord Jesus that You also provided the payment for my sins. I have no hope on my own.
