SCRIPTURE: “Let no one deceive you with empty arguments, for because of these things God’s wrath is coming on the disobedient. Therefore, do not become their partners. For you were once darkness, but now [you are] light in the Lord. Walk as children of light — for the fruit of the light [results] in all goodness, righteousness, and truth — discerning what is pleasing to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:6-10 (HCSB)
QUOTE: “Man can and does rationalize his sins. He finds reasons for all his weakness, invents excuses that first calm and then deaden his conscience. He blames God, society, education, and environment for his wrong doing.” —Mother Angelica.
NOTE:
We should not rationalize our sinful behavior or avoid taking responsibility for our actions. Because of our new life in Christ, we are to illuminate the darkness created by sin. In Ephesians 5 :1-8 These believers who once lived in “darkness,” particularly in sexually immoral relationships, were to now “walk” among unbelievers as “children of light”. They were to obey Jesus Christ, who had taught His disciples that they “are the light of the world”. To avoid continued moral failures, we must openly acknowledge our sin. If we say, “We have no sin,” we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say, “We don’t have any sin,” we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:8-10)
ILLUSTRATION:
Aaron’s reaction to Moses’ confrontation would be humorous if it were not so tragic! He rationalized his behavior and blamed the people—a classic example of our tendency This brings to mind Aaron’s ridiculous excuse when Moses confronted him regarding the gold he had collected from the people: “When I threw it into the fire, out came this calf!” (Exodus 32:24). He resorted to self-deception and dishonesty. What an incredible example of a man guilty of flagrant idolatry! The truth is, Aaron purposely and willingly cooperated with Israel’s request to construct this false god, so he was just as guilty as they were.
REFLECTION:
Why are most of us tempted to cover our sinful actions even though we know we have violated God’s laws?
TWO YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1Chr 27 – 28, Psalm 50