What’s The Point?

Q

I believe that Jesus died for each and every one of our sins. But if no matter what sin we commit, we are already forgiven, what’s the point in not sinning? I have confessed that I have a struggle, a sinful enjoyment. That enjoyment is revenge on someone that hurt me so much. I’m guilty of it, I feel evil. But I enjoy it! And that is wrong, I am aware of it. I feel very bad when I see the person is hurt, but I feel it is what they deserved. I realize it is a sin (at least I think it is), but I can’t restrain myself. Even when I have confessed, my behavior has not changed! Isn’t the Holy Spirit supposed to change my behavior?

A

We have been forgiven for all our sins (Colossians 2:13-14). That includes the ones we haven’t committed yet.

The reason we try to behave in a manner pleasing to the Lord is to show our gratitude for having been given the free gift of salvation. In other words we don’t do it to earn anything, we do it to say thanks that we already have everything.

In Philippians 3:16 Paul said, “Only let us live up to what we’ve already attained.”

The Holy Spirit is a counselor not a commander. He can’t change our behavior unless we let Him.

As long as you enjoy your current behavior He won’t override your desires.

Seeking revenge is a human emotion that stems from anger, and anger is a sin (Matthew 5:21-22).

God said to leave the revenge to Him (Deuteronomy 32:35).

We’re supposed to ask Him to forgive the person who hurt us. By doing so, our anger will soon go away, and along with it, the desire for revenge.