Today's Reading: Numbers 15
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.