Hope in Hard PlacesSample

Past Sins

According to Merriam-Webster, paralysis denotes a total or partial loss of function, particularly involving motion or sensation in a body part.

For many of us, this paralysis manifests as a result of fear—fear of losing a spouse to deployment, fear of deploying ourselves, fear of societal expectations as a spouse, or fear of past indiscretions tarnishing our status.

When past sins haunt you...

Despite trusting in God's forgiveness, a lingering fear persists that our past sins might resurface to haunt us. This dilemma raises a crucial question: do we truly trust God? Or do we doubt the efficacy of His forgiveness when we genuinely repent?

The essence of Jesus' teachings reveals that without obedience to God's word and belief in Him, we remain slaves to sin (John 8:34-36). The shackles of ancestral curses from Adam and Eve need not bind us; through faith, we can break free from the grip of fear that accompanies sin.

You can have freedom in Jesus.

Jesus asserted, "If you hold to my teaching, you are my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).

The reality is that we don't have to live in fear once we accept and follow Jesus. While facing consequences for our sins, the beauty lies in being free from sin's eternal wages. To live in accordance with God's instructions, we must believe in Jesus, receive Him in faith, and share His teachings with others.

Regardless of our current situation, Jesus offers relief from the fear of sin and the haunting specter of the past.

The call is clear: take a moment to pause and reflect on the transformative power of Jesus, giving thanks for His salvation. Martin Luther's wisdom resonates—acknowledging the hopelessness of sin marks the beginning of salvation.

Adapted from a Planting Roots Article by Ashley Saulnier.