FORSAKING

He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, But he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.

Proverbs 28:13

 

Introduction

Forsaking sin cannot save, but forsaking sin is an evident token of salvation. The one who says, “I believe in Christ,” but continues in the old life has no token of salvation. When the prodigal son came home, he left the far country.

An evident token of perdition is continuing in sin. Balaam said, “I have sinned;” but he went on sinning. Saul said, “I have sinned;” but he  continued in his sin. Let no one think that they have a genuine saving faith in Christ, if they willfully, and with a “don’t care” spirit are walking in sin. So, shall we then continue in sin that grace may abound? Paul replies with a resounding “God forbid” 

By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Romans 6:2

To desire to continue in sin shows a misunderstanding of this abundant grace and a contempt for Jesus’ sacrifice. Let’s consider David after his adultery with Bathsheba or Peter after denying Christ (Psalms 51:17 and Matthew 26:75). They did not discount their sin as simply something atoned for. Just because the Christian’s sin is paid for by Jesus, sin is still damaging to the believer and their relationship with God.

My sacrifice, O God, is[a] a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. Psalm 51:17

Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. Matthew 26:75

You may be indulging in activities that are unpleasant to God, you can stop. You have agency to choose your thoughts and actions. The adversary may have misled you in the past, but you have the final choice. You can regain the strength of the Spirit in your life. To do this, you need most of all to know that your Redeemer loves you. He has the power to help you. He died to pay for the sins of all who repent and follow Him. You can draw on the power of His Atonement for hope and strength as you repent. Remember the words of the Apostle Paul: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

Main Scriptures

Proverbs 28:13, Romans 6:2

Questions

  1. Is falling in sin same as forsaking God?
  2. How should a Christian deal with feelings of guilt regarding past sins?
  3. How can I overcome a habitual sin?
  4. Must a person forsake his sins before he can come to Christ?
  5. Did God truly forsake Jesus on the cross? if yes, why will He do that to His son?