A pastor friend once told me a story, and it has stuck with me ever since. When he was a teenager living on the east coast, he sinned in a way that caused him deep shame.
One day, he took a walk on the beach and sat on the shore. He felt so overcome with guilt that he began writing all the things he had done in the sand. As he did, a gigantic wave crashed over him, knocking him over. When he sat up, he noticed the writing had been completely washed away.
In that moment, the Holy Spirit whispered, “Son, that’s how I see your life.” This moment marked him. He realized then that he was to quit mulling over the sins he had committed and, in true repentance, begin moving toward the incredible life God had in store for him.
What a powerful testimony of God’s grace! His redemption washes over our wrongs and makes all things new! Because of this great love, we’re no longer a slave to sin’s curse, and it should characterize our lives no more. Instead, we can separate ourselves from sin and all of its consequences.
It’s important to note, however, that though this grace is available, it’s not automatic. As we embrace God’s cure, we’ll find grace not only to pull us out of guilt but also to help us change.
In Ephesians 2:1-5, the apostle Paul makes a few points regarding our natural inclination toward sin. He first says that because we’re human, we’re naturally carnal. Then, he explains that though we’re the ones committing the sins, the source of our sin is not actually us; it’s Satan and his demonic powers.
This reality should change our approach to dealing with it. Instead of simply fighting the sin, we must attack its source—the spirit behind it all. When we defeat the spirit, the sin will follow suit.
In Micah 7, we find how to attack sin at its source.
First, we must eliminate our fascination with sin. Live any amount of time, and you’ll find: sin will always fascinate you before it assassinates you! Next, we must end sin’s oppression—it’s hold on us. We must take the steps God leads us to take, understanding life won’t change overnight but over time.
Then, we must overcome our obsession with sin and consistently win over our weakness through the power of God’s Word. As we renew our minds with His truth, we’ll begin to crave right over wrong.
Verse 14 tells us we must honor our Shepherd. When we keep our focus on Him, we’ll remain on the right path. Finally, verse 18 says we must consistently say no to shame, reminding ourselves of the redeeming power of our Savior’s love!
When we approach our sin God’s way, then we can rejoice in verse 19—that God has thrown our sins into the depths of the ocean, never to overtake us again! What a powerful, gracious God we serve!
