[207 words]
I recently read this insightful sentence by Scott Smith and began thinking about all the times people saw the symptom and result but not the real problem:
“Immediately after Adam and Eve sinned, they tried to cover their nakedness with leaves to hide what they thought was the problem—after all, it is what “appeared” obvious (Gen. 3:6).”
Sin has consequences, and it is easy to look at the symptoms of a sin and miss the real cause. Adam and Eve chose to listen to someone other than God and did what they desired, thinking their actions would bring benefits. They were wrong in this assumption.
Treating symptoms is not bad or inappropriate, if we also think of the cause of the problem; but if we do not treat the cause, we will not end the problem. We’ll only mask it.
Whatever the sin, we must realize there is a deeper issue: Do we believe God’s instructions? Will we serve God or selfish desires? Morality is at its foundation relational toward God. Remember Joseph’s reply to Potiphar’s wife, who wanted Joseph: “How then could I do this great evil and sin against God?”
The next time you are tempted, go to God (Hebrews 4:14-16).
Phil Sanders
Edmond, OK