Friday June 24, 2016

Sin Is Deadly

-1 CHRONICLES 10:1-14

Key Verse:

"So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of the Lord, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that has a familiar spirit, to inquire of it" (1 Chronicles 10:13).

Many times when people dabble into sinful practices or revel in indulgent lifestyle, it is because they believe they can get away with it, and that there were no consequences for their actions. Saul found this out the hard way, and when it was too late. Even as the end of his reign as king approached, Saul continued to disobey and rebel against God. He ignored God's instructions to wipe out the enemies of Israel. He failed to ask Him for guidance and direction on how to run the kingdom of Israel. Just when his cup of iniquity was full, he turned to seek counsel from God, but God refused to answer him. Actually, he became frantic and turned to God for direction only after he had exhausted all other alternatives. He only turned to God when there was nowhere else to go. When God refused to answer him, he promptly turned to a witch. Shortly after, he was mortally injured in the battle with the Philistines. As a result, he fell on the sword and took his own life when he could have followed the Saviour and obtained mercy and pardon. Every act that displeases God must be avoided. And this includes all forms of stubbornness, rebellion and disobedience committed by men. In fact, it is sinful to refuse to do what is right. It is foolish to continue in sinful practices that will earn death as wage. The right response is to examine oneself, turn from all evil ways and live righteously before God. Otherwise, death on earth and in eternity knocks at the door.

Thought for the day: Sin pays but a deadly price.

Bible Reading in one Year: 1 KINGS 11 - 12