Imagine you have a friend who was struggling with an unhealthy habit, and after many months of hard work – maybe even years – they were able to break free from it. But one day, they toyed with the idea of going back just once because they thought they had the strength to walk away again. The risk is real: stepping back even for a moment could lead to an even greater struggle than before.
Let’s read Romans 6:15-16 (NLT) and see what Paul has to say about this:
“Well then, since God’s grace has set us free from the law, does that mean we can go on sinning? Of course not! Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.”
Here, Paul confronts a common misconception – that God’s grace allows us to sin without consequence. Just as it would be foolish for someone who fought so hard to overcome a habit to willingly re-entangle themselves, it is dangerous for us to treat sin casually because of grace. When we choose sin, we become its slaves – bound and controlled by it. But when we choose obedience, we step into freedom, righteousness, and a life aligned with God’s purpose for us.
God’s grace isn’t a free pass to do whatever we want; it’s a call to live righteously. By His grace, we are given strength to say no to sin and walk in a new way of life, where obedience becomes an act of love and devotion.
Let each of us examine our heart today. Is there a habitual sin in my life that I’m treating casually, as though God has given me a Get-Out-of-Jail-Free card? Or when that temptation comes calling, do I take a moment to remember that the cost of my sin cost Jesus His life?
Today’s prayer: Lord, thank You for Your grace that frees me from the power of sin. Help me to choose obedience over indulgence, recognizing that true freedom lies in following Your ways. Strengthen me to resist temptation and to live a life that honors You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Former Blackout Artist 