Daily Sins

“God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting.”—Romans 1:28 NKJV

Paul warned the Romans about the tragic consequences of sexual immorality. He wrote about “vile passions” and things that were “not fitting,” and “shameful” actions that resulted in “a debased mind” (vs. 26–28). These are serious sins that are offensive to God and demonstrate that people have abandoned His laws.

It is important to read this passage in context. This kind of serious immorality clearly is evil, but other, less dramatic sins are just as bad in God’s sight.

These sins include “greed, hate, envy … quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip,” being “proud and boastful,” disobedience, failing to keep promises, heartlessness, and acting without mercy (vs. 29–31 NLT).

These are the kinds of attitudes and actions we see all around us in our daily lives that may not seem so bad. Even Christians can find themselves engaging in these kinds of activities without realizing their consequences or how much they can tarnish our testimony.

Today, be on guard against these kinds of practical sins. People all around you may engage in deceit or gossip. You may be tempted to be boastful, become envious, or withhold forgiveness or mercy. But make sure to take Paul’s warning seriously. In God’s sight, sin is sin.

Ask God for His forgiveness for any kind of sin. Seek His help to live purely and cleanly, so others can see how Christ has changed your life.

Reflection Question:Reflect on these sinful attitudes and actions that may be in your heart.