Sometimes I can be very philosophical--addressing terms or situations that go beyond my own self. As I was working on my Sunday message (I am a pastor), I ran into one of those "terms" that caused me to think--and think--and think some more. In fact, it was more than a term, or a doctrine, but a situation.
The situation is sin--whether thought or deed. The question is how do we overcome the power, the temptation, the draw of sin (anything that falls short of God's glory). I know from personal experience that sin is difficult to master, to overcome. My conversations with people also demonstrate the truth that sin is powerful. It costs more than we ever intended to pay, and takes us farther than we ever intended to go. It destroys everything in its wake.
As I was studying for this weekends message, I centered my thoughts on 2 Peter 3:14-18, on reconnected to a powerful truth: that God has given the believer in Jesus Christ the way to overcome sin. And that truth? Grace! God's Grace!. As we "grow in the Grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ" there is the power and authority we need to overcome. That is how we can "make every effort" to reject sin and embrace a life of holiness.
This Sunday, I am going to share this thought, and a little bit more about God's amazing, wonderful, mysterious, powerful, incredible, matchless Grace.