I committed a small sin recently.
Actually, to correct that, there are no small sins, only ones in which there aren’t big consequences. We may think it’s a small sin, but in God’s eyes, sin is sin.
I thought of the parallel in the life of King David – read 2 Samuel 11:1–21 – where David peeped on Bethsheba while she was bathing – small sin? – which led to adultery, a lie and then a murder. Small sin?
When I entered recovery from drugs and alcohol many years ago, I was warned by more experienced people in recovery, “Don’t hang out in slippery places.” So, I stayed away from bars, parties, weddings or any other place that served alcohol, just to avoid the temptation. It was good advice. One drink, one small sin, and surely it would lead to more trouble for me.
Also in my own life, I see how small departures from doing right and the lack of avoiding temptation spiraled into other things which became very costly to me – and others I love.
Recently, a pastor from a church in another country that we have supported left his wife for someone else on his staff. The same day I learned this, I watched a sermon online about the importance of not having unconfessed sin. Geez, do you think someone is trying to get something through to me?
After I finished watching the sermon, I immediately jumped in my car and went to make amends and confess my sin. It may seem to have been a small sin, but I am no longer willing to harbor those in my life. I choose a life of following and honoring Christ. I owe it to him to confess my sins and make things as right as I can when I do screw up.
What seems like small sins are not small. They can create that slippery slope that leads to life changing consequences. It takes courage and a lack of false pride to admit it, but believe me, it is worth it.
A question for you: What small thing have you done recently that is wrong and needs to be made right? Will you decide today to take action and do that?
Richard Bahr 