June 8 -- "When Mistakes Happen"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 15

"When Mistakes Happen"

Sin is often referred to as a “mistake” in the Bible when it is unintentional or done in ignorance. Sin can also be a deliberate choice to disobey God's commands, and in such cases, it is not a mistake but a willful act of rebellion.

In Numbers 15, God gave the Israelites instructions on how to be forgiven for their unintentional sins. If someone sinned unintentionally, they were required to bring a bull as a sin offering, along with a grain offering and a drink offering. The priest would then offer a sacrifice for the person's sin, and they would be forgiven.

The Israelites were a people who were prone to sin, just like we are. They needed to be reminded of their need for atonement and forgiveness. This process of offering a sacrifice for unintentional sins was meant to show them that sin has consequences even if it is not deliberate, and that forgiveness and restoration are only possible through the shedding of blood.

Even as Christians we still make mistakes and often sin unintentionally. We fall short of God's standard of holiness. But the good news is that we can still come to God for forgiveness and atonement. It's important to remember that sin, whether intentional or unintentional, separates us from God and has serious consequences. As Christians, we are called to turn away from sin and pursue righteousness. In 1 John 1:9, it says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

The joy of being forgiven for our mistakes is truly indescribable. When we acknowledge our sins and come to God with a repentant heart, asking for His forgiveness, we experience a sense of relief and freedom that is unlike anything else. It's like a weight has been lifted off our shoulders, and we can breathe easier knowing that we have been cleansed of our wrongdoing.