Resources/Articles
The Power of Sin
Let us lay aside every weight,
and the sin which so easily ensnares us.
Hebrews 12:1
What is so powerful about the verse above? It is when its truth is witnessed in our lives and in the lives of others. Let me illustrate...
Two friends were having lunch and were discussing the peril of a preacher who had failed morally. They were both saddened to hear of his plight and how devastating it was to his family. One of the two men wondered out loud, “I know anyone can be tempted and anyone can stumble, but he’s a smart guy. How could he think he could get away with it?” Without blinking, the other one responded, “Sin makes us stupid.” It was an abrupt statement. It shows the plain, simple truth to the fact - sin has power.
“Sin makes us look stupid” is as direct, powerful, and wise a statement one can make about the intent, design, and consequence of sin. Would it not be the same way you would explain the actions of King David, who turned to adultery and murder? How about the reckless choices of Samson? Consider the public denials of Christ by Peter, the most public of Jesus’ disciples. What more could be said about Ananias and Sapphira? We are people who become vulnerable to temptation and to the foolishness of mind, which will rationalize and justify almost any course of action, if we try hard enough. However, one passage may answer why some of these foolish decisions are made. “A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fooll is arrogant and careless” (Proverbs 14:16). Careful and careless makes the difference in acting like a fool and acting with wisdom.
To have victory over the power of sin, it will come from leaning on the strength and wisdom of Christ (Romans 7:24-25). As His grace strengthens our hearts and minds, we can overcome our own worst inclination to make foolish choices. God has the power source within His word and grace. Do not let sin break you and make you look like a fool.
