God has shown us how to avoid sinning in the Bible. One of the earliest tips is found in Genesis 13. Abraham (then called Abram) and his close relative Lot were traveling together searching for a new home for their families and possessions. Contention arose between them, and Abram suggested that they part company. He proposed that Lot choose his direction, and he would then go the other way. Lot chose to “pitch his tents toward Sodom“, where there was water and signs of prosperity. The Bible says that it also was a place where “many wicked and sinful men lived“.
The old English “pitch his tents TOWARD Sodom” means to live NEAR Sodom. The next thing we read about Lot is, that he was living IN Sodom. The lesson where avoiding sin is concerned, is to not take the first step in that direction.
A world filled with temptations
Americans live in the most prosperous and comfortable society in all of history. We also though, find temptations everywhere. Christians need to be on guard always to avoid sinning. be honest with yourself. What kinds of television programs do you watch? What kind of people to you spend your time with? What kind of literature do you read? If you’re not a disciplined Bible reader or a very active member of a good Christian fellowship, sin from our environment stands ready to quickly to fill the vacuum.
Flee fornication
Lot’s life in Sodom may have happened over time, but don’t expect to leave sinful behavior the same way. Try quitting to smoke gradually. It doesn’t work. When Jesus encountered the prostitute who was about to be stoned for her sin and asked her accusers which of them was without sin, they all left. Then he turned to her and said “neither do I accuse thee…” but then added, “… go thy way and SIN NO MORE.” He wasn’t telling her to taper off or to try to sin less.
If your sin involves alcohol, smash the bottles. If it’s a boy or girlfriend, break it off permanently. If it’s gambling or drugs or anything else that controls your life other than the Holy Spirit of God, get rid of it! If you fail (as we all do), then repent and ask God for his strength and help to not fail again. View ANYTHING that goes through your mind or that makes you feel like quitting as the work of the enemy. Stumble if you must, but DO NOT QUIT! That gives him the ultimate victory in your life.