For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:22b-23

Excuses for sinning entered the world when Adam blamed Eve, and Eve blamed the snake.
Since that first passing-of-the-buck, things haven’t changed all that much. That’s the conclusion put forth by Pamela Druckerman, who has completed a book exposing the excuses men and women give as they try to justify or explain away the sin of adultery.

She discovered that men in South Africa excuse their infidelity by saying, “It’s probably kinder and better than taking a second or third wife.” Americans think they are justified when they “fool around” because their marriage has become a love-free zone. Men in Japan are holding fast to the conviction that sex outside the marriage really can’t be called "adultery" if a prostitute is paid.

Now, I assume that most of you reading this devotion are Christian, Christians who believe adultery is sinful and unacceptable to the Lord, their communities, congregations, and spouse. I also assume you are thankful that you don’t have to make any excuse about adultery.

I’m glad you feel that way, and that you don’t have to make up an excuse for such a sin.
So let me ask, if adultery isn’t the sin you excuse, what is? Since the Bible says, “all have sinned,” I’m sure you must have some sin(s) that you are trying to excuse away. So, what might that sin be?

Think about it. Haven’t you known people who have excused the sin of gossiping because “they are only telling the truth.” There are some who write off profanity and swearing because “everybody’s doing it.” Most of us are acquainted with those who have no problem harboring hatred in their hearts because “the other person started it.”

Making excuses for sin remains a pretty commonplace occurrence among God’s people. This is why we need to remember that even as the Lord didn’t find Adam and Eve’s explanations for sin to be acceptable, God isn’t pleased with our excuses either. Instead of excuses, God wants a spirit of repentance form His blood-bought people. Psalm 51:17 says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” Jesus lived, died and rose so we might have a repentant heart and a spirit which comes to the Lord and prays:

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, for all sins, including my sad excuses, I am heartily sorry. For the sake of the Savior who sacrificed Himself for me, I ask for Your forgiveness. In Your forgiveness, may I live this day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Today's Bible Readings: 2 Samuel 16-18    John 5:1-24

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