Sin is a word that often carries heavy weight, conjuring up images of moral failure, guilt, and separation from God. Yet, sin is not just an ancient concept or a list of wrong doings. It is a human struggle that everyone faces daily, a struggle that Apostle Paul attested to in Romans 7:24 thus: *“O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?”*
The Bible does not shy away from the reality of sin. In Romans 3:23, Paul writes, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This verse is a reflection of the fact that sin is universal and inherent in man; therefore, no one is exempted. It is not just a distant theological idea, it is practical as we all experience it in our everyday life. For example, it is in the harsh words spoken in anger, the selfish decision made at someone else’s expense, or the moment of pride that blinds us to our faults. Understanding sin, as a part of the human nature, helps us to see that it is not just about ‘doing bad things.’ It is also about the inner battles and contentions we face every day. Paul describes this struggle vividly in Romans 7:15-20, where he says, *“I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do”*. Sin is also deceptive; it often starts small, something that seems harmless or justifiable. But like a seed, it grows and takes root in our hearts; it then begins to bear fruits. In James 1:14-15, Apostle James warns us to be wary of what we allow into our hearts, as its progression can easily lead us astray. What begins as a fleeting thought or minor compromise can lead us down a path that ends in destruction - whether it is the destruction of our character or relationships. But the story does not end with sin, the Bible is clear that while sin is a reality, so is redemption. In Romans 6:23, we find a powerful contrast: *“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”* This is the hope we cling to, through Jesus Christ; we are offered forgiveness, and the chance to start afresh. It is not about being perfect; it is about being in a relationship with a perfect God who loves us in our imperfections. When we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us of our iniquities (1 Jn. 1:9). We must also be determined not to go back to those sinful ways. This is where the burden of sin is lifted, not because of anything we have done, but because of what Jesus has done for us.
Through Christ, we are offered a way out of the darkness of sin into the light of His love and forgiveness. But we must be intentional and willingly accept this offer. Let us not be discouraged by our failings and faltering. Instead, let us lean into the grace that God offers, trusting that His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9).
