Sin 

   “If we say, ‘We are without sin,’ we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (1 John 1: 8) 

   We hear very little about sin these days.  Even in our churches it is rarely the topic of a sermon.  We would rather hear our pastors emphasize inclusiveness and unity even though neither of those can exist where sin abides.

   Some rarely consider the sinfulness of their acts, but demand and cherish their right to “choose”.  They feel we have the right to choose for themselves, never considering whether the choice is in union with the will of God.  In their arrogance, they have decided God isn’t needed to define what is good and what is evil; they can do it for themselves.

   Pride, lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, anger (or wrath), and envy; these are the seven deadly sins.  In my opinion pride is the root cause of all the others for it is in pride that we place ourselves above the good of others and the will of God.  But when is the last time your pastor reminded you of these sins and where they will lead?

   To battle the deadly sins there are seven holy virtues; faith, hope, and charity (the Spiritual or Theological virtues), and prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice (the Cardinal virtues).  These, as well, are rarely mentioned in our churches these days though they are our weapons to combat sin in this fallen world.

   “Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers; but their delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night.” (Psalm 1: 1 – 2).  Until we begin to take the words of this Psalm into our hearts and live by them, we will never overcome the sinfulness that lies within each of us.  Only through God and His truths can we overcome the lies and temptations of Satan.