As Christians we know that God watches over us and is aware of everything that we think and do. But does knowing this really make us more accountable for our thoughts and actions? Or do we just trust that God will forgive us and continue acting the same way as always have?
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give an account on the day of judgement for every empty word that they have spoken.” (Mathew chapter 12, verse 36 ).
One of the first things that we learn when we become Christians, is about sinning and what God thinks about sins. “For the wages of sin is death , but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans chapter 6, verse 23).
So does knowing what the price of sin is and that God is aware of every sin we commit, make us more aware of our thoughts and actions? Or do we just trust that we will be forgiven and that God loves us and that’s good enough?
Forgive us our sins
One of the greatest gifts that we receive as Christians, is the forgiveness of our sins. It doesn't matter what we have or haven't thought or done. We know that God still loves us and forgives us no matter what.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” ( 1 John chapter 1, verse 9). So if we know that we will always be forgiven, why do we need to change our behaviour? God's still going to love us no matter what, so it shouldn't matter what we do.
“Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching, my father will love them and we will come to them and make our home with them.” ( John chapter 1, verse 23).
Saul of Tarsus
One of the most notable people in the bible is the apostle Paul. Formerly known as Saul of Tarsus. Before he became known as a great Christian leader, Paul was known for hunting down and arresting followers of Jesus and quite often being witness to their deaths.
But Paul soon had an encounter with Jesus on the way to Damascus and almost immediately started transforming from someone who prosecuted Christians to being a Christian himself. Paul believed in God this whole time and was even a Pharisee, so why did his encounter with Jesus change him when it seemed that his Jewish faith hadn't?
“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners- of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners. Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.” ( 1 Timothy chapter 1, verses 15-16).
Big brother
One of the current popular reality TV shows that is running at the moment, is Australia's big brother.
The show involves a group of “housemates” living isolated in a house while the “big brother” security cameras watch their every move. This sometimes impacts housemates when they are forced to face the consequences of their actions, and are reminded that they are constantly being watched.
Well God may not be some mechanical security camera but He is always watching over us and we too are sometimes going to be held accountable for what He witnesses us doing. “For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and He examines all your paths.” (Proverbs chapter 5, verse 21).
Conclusion
So I leave you with this final thought. It is not the fear that we are being watched that keeps us from wanting to sin. It’s having the knowledge that the One watching us loves us so much and has given His life for us to prove it.
My name is Kate and I love gardening, exercising, and being involved with my church social groups. I have loved to write from a young age, and took up poetry as a teenager. I have recently got married and am enjoying getting used to married life.