The Laurel Canyon church of Christ

Post-Sin Provisions

Jason Budd

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense–Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:1-2).

        Have you ever done something that damaged a relationship that you had with someone? Have you ever done or said something that as soon as you did or said it, you knew just how hurtful it was? Can you recall the feeling that you got in that moment? It’s guilt and frustration, sadness and disappointment. You wish you could take it back, but it’s too late, and you have to live with the consequences.
        Sin fits that description perfectly. Often, as soon as you sin you regret it; but you have already damaged the most precious of relationships – the one you have with God. While a friendship you’ve just hurt may never recover fully, thanks be to God that provisions have been made to help you get things back on track.
        Essentially it boils down to the following conclusion. While it’s not okay to sin, God knows that you have; while it’s not the end of the world, it could be very soon. We have a God who understands perfectly who we are. He knew that we would fall. He knows that we continue to need help. Therefore, because He loves us, He made provisions for us, so that those who love Him might mend any damage they have caused to their relationship with Him. When you sin, open yourself up to those feelings of godly sorrow. Follow His commandments, and be confident that Jesus “is the atoning sacrifice for [your] sins.”