Dealing with sin

The fact that we sin is a given. Regardless of whether we err intentionally or unwittingly, the result is the same; guilt (Lev 4:13, 22, 27). Sin and guilt are issues that must be dealt with. Too often we try to turn a blind eye, rationalize or justify our bad behavior. We put a band-aid on our guilt, but we never resolve the problem. The issue is not whether or not we sin, it is how we deal with our inevitable error. God knows this and provides a remedy. In the Old Testament the remedy was confession, sacrifice, and restitution. If the sinner couldn’t afford a lamb, then he could offer a couple of turtledoves. If he couldn’t afford that, a couple of pigeons would do (Lev 5:5-6, 6:5). It was never the animal that provided forgiveness. These all pointed to the one effectual sacrifice. In the New Testament, Jesus made the actual sacrifice in fulfillment of all the old symbolic animal sacrifices (Heb 9:13-14). Provision has been made for your sin. You ignore it at your own peril. Confess it and receive the provision for forgiveness that God offers in Jesus (1Jo 1:9).