Is it Still a Sin if No One is Hurt?

Q: I know the Bible says some things are wrong, but if they don’t hurt anyone, why are they a sin? To me, something is only sinful if it harms someone. Why should God care what we do? — L.L.

A: The Bible uses several words that we translate as “sin,” but they all have the same meaning: A sin is anything that displeases God. It may be something we do (or fail to do), or an evil thought, or a selfish motive — but whatever it is, it isn’t God’s will.

Have you ever asked yourself why God doesn’t want us to sin? It isn’t because He wants to take all the fun out of life and make us miserable — not at all. Instead, God loves us, and He knows far better than we do what is best for us. He also knows what will hurt us or keep us from true happiness, and when we do them, we are hurting ourselves — and also others. Never forget: Sin always hurts us — always.

Some things are clearly not God’s will; He has told us about them in the Bible, which is His Word. But what about other situations, such as a questionable habit? Don’t ignore them, but face them honestly. Have you prayed and asked God if this is pleasing to Him? Would you be ashamed or embarrassed if others knew about it? Would it lead another person astray? I recall the advice a godly man gave me many years ago: “If in doubt — don’t!”

The real issue, however, is this: What place does Jesus Christ have in your life? Make sure of your commitment to Him, and then make it your goal to follow Him every day. The Bible says, “Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness” (1 Timothy 6:11).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.