Courageous Choices Part 4Sample

THE BARRIER TO COURAGEOUS CHOICES

The thing that gets in the way when trying to make the courageous choice to follow God is sin. Sin affects all of us, and every one of us has sinned (Romans 3:23). Sin is anything that misses the standard or expectation that God has set for us. Sin is a big deal to God. Ultimately, sin results in death and separation from God. We see how this plays out for the Israelites. Just one of them disobeyed God’s direct command as they battled for the Promised Land and their separation from God caused them to lose the battle in Ai. Achan, the one who disobeyed, dies for his sin. No matter how much we desire to be bold in our faith when we sin, it is going to mess up our walk with God.

Praise God, Jesus forgives our sins! He overcame death and the grave so that we might be forgiven for eternity. Paul expresses his gratitude beautifully in his letter to Timothy,

Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Ask Yourself:

-How have I seen sin affect my ability to follow where God is leading?

Pause to Pray: Oh God, I am a sinner! I need your forgiveness. Thank you, Jesus, that I am not a slave to this sin anymore. Thank you for setting me free!

Take a Next Step:

-The ancient church practice of Examen is a pause at the end of the day to reflect on where you have seen God and where you have sinned. Set an alarm to pause at the end of your day and confess your sins to God.