The Advantages of Preventing Sin
by David Gibson
As wonderful as forgiveness is, isn’t it far better not to sin in the first place?
- Preventing sin helps us avoid being hardened by sin (Ephesians 4:19; I Timothy 4:2; Hebrews 3:13). Habitual sin desensitizes. A hardened sinner is a sad spectacle indeed!
- Preventing sin helps keep our influence positive. If others know of our sin, how can we influence them for good? And—horrible thought!—what if my sin leads someone else to sin (I Corinthians 5:6)?
- Preventing sin spares us the agony of a wounded conscience. Abigail begged David not to take revenge so that “this will not cause grief or a troubled heart . . .” (I Samuel 25:31 NASB). David listened.
- Preventing sin makes for a happier life! “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it” (I Peter 3:10-11).
- Preventing sin keeps the prayer-lines open (I John 3:22-23). Sin can actually hinder our prayers (I Peter 3:7, 12). If we’re not willing to listen to God, why should He listen to us?
- Preventing sin helps us stay ready. “Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (I Thessalonians 5:22-23).
No wonder the apostle John said, “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin” (I John 2:1).
Let’s remember these the next time we’re tempted!
