The Dangers of Dismissing Sin - iBelieve Truth: A Devotional for Women - May 13, 2025
"Are we not all children of the same Father? Are we not all created by the same God? Then why do we betray each other, violating the covenant of our ancestors? Judah has been unfaithful, and a detestable thing has been done in Israel and Jerusalem. The men of Judah have defiled the LORD’s beloved sanctuary by marrying women who worship idols. "May the LORD cut off from the nation of Israel every last man who has done this and yet brings an offering to the LORD of Heaven’s Armies." Malachi 2:10-12 (NLT)
Many people believe that because of Jesus, sin is no longer an issue. But there’s more to understand about sin than simply acknowledging His sacrifice.
Jesus’s perfect blood wasn’t a permission slip to live against God while still expecting His blessings. It was the greatest act of love — an invitation to be reconciled with our Creator. But like any invitation, it must be received. That reception is marked by a heart that genuinely desires to walk in God’s ways.
In Malachi 2:10-12, we read about men of Judah who defiled the Lord’s sanctuary. They knowingly violated God’s covenant by marrying women who worshipped idols, and still had the audacity to bring offerings before the Lord. These weren’t small missteps. These were choices made in defiance of God’s law.
“Then why do we betray each other, violating the covenant of our ancestors?” (Malachi 2:10)
This verse still speaks today. Many people identify themselves as God’s children, yet live in a way that betrays His heart. Through Jesus, we are welcomed into the family of God, but belonging to Him means our lives begin to reflect His character. That’s not legalism. That’s love in action.
As followers of Christ, we must remember:
-Affirming sin is not the same as extending grace.
-True love points people to the truth.
To “believe” in Jesus, as the Greek implies, is to give all of me for all of Him. That belief isn’t shallow agreement. It’s surrender. It’s a transformation. And when we reject that surrender and cling to our own desires instead of His, we are rejecting the very gift of salvation we claim to cherish.
“When sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.” (James 1:15, NLT)
Churches today often struggle with this. In an effort to be “loving,” many have begun redefining God’s standards, affirming what He clearly calls sin. But love doesn’t lead people to destruction just to make them feel accepted. It points them toward freedom, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Accepting others into the family of God is not about dismissing sin and shortcomings. It's about being mindful of God’s law. When we learn what God loves and what He hates, we can then be mindful about how our actions and decisions affect the body of Christ and the Kingdom. When we belong to God, He guides our hearts to think of others more than ourselves (Philippians 2:3).
So, how do we extend God’s love without affirming sin?
We follow Christ’s example. Jesus welcomed the sinner, but He also said, “Go and sin no more.” He didn’t dilute the truth to avoid offense. He knew that speaking the truth was love. We must do the same, even when it’s unpopular.
The truth is, sin has always led to death. From Adam and Eve’s exile to Pharaoh’s destruction, the Bible reminds us that rejecting God’s ways brings consequences — not because He is cruel, but because He is holy.
“Dear children, let us not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.” (1 John 3:18)
Daily Challenge
Read Romans 1:18-32 and ask yourself honestly:
-Does my view of sin line up with what God says in His Word?
-Let this time in Scripture stir your heart toward truth, repentance, and renewed commitment.
God is calling. Will you return?
Let’s pray:
Dear Heavenly Father, do I know your ways? Am I walking in obedience to the life you’ve called me to? If I’m walking the wrong way, please put me back on the right path. Lord, incline my heart to you. Please help me want you in my life more than any earthly thing. Help me to learn your ways and walk in them. I ask this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
This devotion was adapted from my new book, Return to Me: A Devotional Through the Book of Malachi. If today’s message stirred something in you — if you're ready to reconnect with God’s Word and grow in real, lasting transformation — I invite you to explore the full devotional and begin a journey of faith that’s rooted, honest, and powerfully relevant.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/John Gollop
Vanessa Luu is a wife, mother, and faith-based writer. She speaks and writes to believers to encourage them to live authentically with God.
Related Resource: Soft Words for Hard Days: A Conversation with Aundi Kolber
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