Scripture: “For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.” (5:21)
Observation: In this chapter, Solomon is cautioning his son about promiscuity. He explains the allure of fleshly lusts and the consequences. Near the chapter’s end, he writes about the blessings of being faithful to one’s wife. Then Solomon reminds his son that God is always aware of what His creation is doing.
Application: The world we live in sees no wrong in indulging in every carnal desire. There is no shame in behaviors that once were spoken of only in whispers or behind closed doors. Today, adultery, same-sex relationships, abortion, greed, and so many other sins are spoken of without reservation. These sins have even been glorified and applauded, while the biblical aspects of marriage, purity, and godly living are ridiculed by today’s culture.
There is no possibility that such sins can be hidden from God. He sees everything I do. In fact, because I am saved and have the Spirit of God within me, wherever I go and whatever I do, I take God with me! There is nowhere I can go where God cannot see me or know what I am doing. David stated, “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there” (Psalm 139:7-8).
It is important to remember that even after becoming a Christian, I am still a sinner… just a saved and forgiven one! Sin is still present in my life, but God is gracious and ready to forgive. I am His work in progress (Philippians 1:6). He knows there will be times when I will stumble and sin, but He is always waiting to forgive me when I repent and restore my soul by cleansing it of all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 states, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Through the study of His Word, I draw closer to the Lord by learning what is good and right in His sight. As I learn more and more about Him, I become more sensitive to His leading and that empowers me to live a life more pleasing to Him. God only wants the best for me. He doesn’t want to make my life miserable; He desires for me to follow Him, and in doing so, He blesses my life. Even now, I still suffer the consequences of past sins in my life, but I am reminded quite often (through His Word) that I have been forgiven. Jesus has taken the punishment I deserved for my sin on the cross. Through Him, I have forgiveness of sins and the promise of an eternity with Him. And while I wait to be in His presence, I know that His Spirit is with me, and like the sparrow in Matthew 10:29, God always watches over me!
Prayer: Father God, thank You for Your ever-presence in my life. Thank You for your mercies. Your Word tells me they are new every morning, and I am so grateful for that. Your compassions never fail. Thank You for forgiving me again and again. I am so sorry for those times when I choose to sin… I don’t take your way of escape, and I willfully sin against You. Please make my heart sensitive to Your Spirit, that I would pay attention when you warn and convict me of sin. Help me to say “no” and chose to walk the paths of righteousness, following in the steps of Jesus. In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.
Sweetly, Lord, have we heard Thee calling, “Come, follow Me!”
And we see where Thy footprints falling, lead us to Thee.
Footprints of Jesus that make the pathway glow;
We will follow the steps of Jesus where’er they go.
(from “Footsteps of Jesus” by M.B.C. Slade)
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“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” – Psalm 86:5