Question about God's correction

[Pmcog81]

I have sin that I struggle with, as we all do. About 6 months ago, I suddenly lost a job, and I remember feeling like it was because of me engaging in that sin. Afterward, I still had trouble with that sin, but recently, I had been engaging in it a lot. Then I suddenly stopped, because I received a warning which I also felt was from God. My question is, since God is more merciful to me than I'll ever deserve, is that a way He'll draw us back from sin-another rebuke before carrying out His second chastisement?

 

[Baptist Believer]

My question is, since God is more merciful to me than I'll ever deserve, is that a way He'll draw us back from sin-another rebuke before carrying out His second chastisement

Here's the thing. I don't know if the circumstances in your life have anything to do with this persistent sin. Your focus seems to be the fear of a second bad thing happening in your life.

I think you're asking the wrong question. God is gracious and merciful to us, but He's already dealt with guilt for sin and prepared the way for you to be free of this persistent sin in your life.

Your focus needs to be on leaving behind this sin by cooperating with God's grace in such a way as to experience freedom from sin's compulsion. There are some who will tell you that it is impossible, but a careful reading of the New Testament - especially Paul's writings - will show you the way. If you need help understanding what Paul writes, there are numerous books out there that provide guidance and wisdom on spiritual disciplines that can help you discipline your body and build your spiritual strength as you rely on God's Spirit and grace working in you. I can make suggestions if you like.

 

[Pmcog81]

Here's the thing. I don't know if the circumstances in your life have anything to do with this persistent sin. Your focus seems to be the fear of a second bad thing happening in your life.

I think you're asking the wrong question. God is gracious and merciful to us, but He's already dealt with guilt for sin and prepared the way for you to be free of this persistent sin in your life.

Your focus needs to be on leaving behind this sin by cooperating with God's grace in such a way as to experience freedom from sin's compulsion. There are some who will tell you that it is impossible, but a careful reading of the New Testament - especially Paul's writings - will show you the way. If you need help understanding what Paul writes, there are numerous books out there that provide guidance and wisdom on spiritual disciplines that can help you discipline your body and build your spiritual strength as you rely on God's Spirit and grace working in you. I can make suggestions if you like.

Yes, I would appreciate some suggestions, thank you.

 

[Baptist Believer]

Yes, I would appreciate some suggestions, thank you.

Sorry about the delay in getting back to you.

A good introductory book that may help you understand the big picture of spiritual formation and simple steps to engage with the Spirit is "The Life You've Always Wanted" by John Ortberg.

You may also want to look at Dallas Willard's "The Spirit of the Disciplines" or "Renovation of the Heart." They are tougher reads than Ortberg, but they are accessible if you take them slowly and carefully. For more of an introductory Willard book, you may want to check out, "The Great Omission:Reclaiming Jesus's Essential Teachings on Discipleship." It is a collection of essays that Willard wrote for other publications gathered together and organized to provide a primer of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

If you have any questions, I am at your disposal.