I have the feeling lately that too many people are expecting us to forgive them for their actions and not hold them accountable for the consequences imposed on us as a society. Should we be loving and forgiving Christians and agree with them? Well, yes and no. The Bible does teach forgiveness. However, it also teaches a couple of other concepts people often choose to ignore. Do NOT do ___ in the first place. Do NOT repeat it as a lifestyle.
There is also a pervasive attitude in our society that “what happens in ___” stays there. People think that what they do on vacation or just in another city or on another highway doesn’t “count” on their personal report card. Yes, it does. It imprints on your mind and heart and soul and can quickly become a way of life. Besides, I think if you are willing to sin in “secret” there is a serious sin you are already committing- dishonesty.
I’ve been pondering Paul’s little book to the Philippian church and his wisdom deserves more attention than I have given it in the past. I think we could avoid a lot of heartache if we kept these words in our heart.
Philippians
(NIV)
“…abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be ale to discern what is best…”
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm…”
“…as you have always obeyed- not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence…”
(KJV)
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
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