Blog Post Review: Lessons from Scripture on Sin, Obedience, and Redemption

Introduction

Recently, I revisited some handwritten notes from January 24, 2024, which dive into biblical teachings about the dangers of sin, the importance of obedience, and the hope found in returning to God. These reflections, drawn from 2 Chronicles 26 and John 14:21.  Let’s review these insights and consider their relevance today.

Summary of Notes

The first set of notes begins with a cautionary tale from 2 Chronicles 26, where King Uzziah’s pride led him to defy God’s laws by entering the temple, a place forbidden to him. His arrogance resulted in God striking him with leprosy, a clear consequence of thinking the rules didn’t apply to him. --I picked up some commentary from ESV (English Standard Version Bible) commentary.  It highlighted the tragedy of sin, noting that it often starts in the "secret chamber of the heart" with thoughts like pride, lust, or jealousy. These, if entertained, manifest in our lives and lead to downfall. -- Yet, the flip side is hopeful—Jesus in John 14:21 promises, "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me.  And he who loves Me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him." Obedience becomes an act of love, inviting God’s presence.

My notes expand on this theme, warning that the culture and sin of the world will manifest in our lives and grow by destroying our relationship with God. This can lead to a lack of peace and difficulties—mentally, physically, and in relationships—due to disobedience.  Emphasizing that we bring judgment upon ourselves through that disobedience. God may deliver us in due time, or we can choose to live in the temporary pleasure of sin, facing difficulties beyond our ability to overcome, potentially leading to damnation. The shocking reality is that we often "fall for the world" despite having countless biblical examples of people who turned from God and lost everything.

Reflection

For me, these notes were a reminder of the spiritual battle we face daily. Uzziah’s story is a stark warning—pride can blind us to God’s boundaries, in ways we didn’t consider. We are called to guard our hearts and wring out sinful decisions/desires. We are also reminded in the promise of John 14:21, which ties love and obedience to a tangible experience of God’s love.  We should be pushed by urgency, reminding us that the world’s influence is relentless, and disobedience invites judgment. Yet, the examples of those who turned back to God (like David or the prodigal son) offer hope—redemption is possible with repentance.

Consequence and grace—challenges us to examine our lives. Are we entertaining decisions/desires that distance us from God? Are we leaning on His strength to navigate difficulties, or chasing temporary pleasures? As believers, we have the Bible’s history to guide us, these notes reminded me about "falling for the world" is a wake-up call to stay vigilant.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Hopefully, these thoughts provide some pause.  A reminder that obedience is not just duty but a pathway to intimacy with God, while sin’s pull can lead to isolation and loss. I encourage you to reflect on these truths. Have you seen pride or worldly influence creep into your life? Are you seeking God’s deliverance? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how these lessons speak to you!