Even old men can be severely tempted to rationalize sin, and there are several reasons for refusing it. One is the primal fear of getting caught and facing consequences from others, which can be helpful. Sometimes even needful.
On a higher plain though, is that I choose righteousness because every act of sin negatively effects my intimacy with God, which I cherish. I covet the uncompromised Spirit-to-spirit relationship with Him that comforts me in my loneliness and helps me hear His whispers of encouragement, instruction and sometimes chastisement.
Further, I want to be close enough that He can do His supernatural work in someone else through me to bless them, thus glorifying Himself and drawing others to Him. There are some scenarios around me where I know He wants to exercise His power to touch someone but it must be in His way and His time, and I need an untainted heart in order to move with Him.
And so, I keep seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33); and searching my heart and considering my thoughts and my ways (Psalm 139:23-24); along with confession and repentance when I get off track. And I find myself going back to II Corinthians 6:16-7:1 again and again for encouragement.
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?
For we are the temple of the living God.
As God has said:
“I will live with them and walk among them,
and I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
17 Therefore,
“Come out from them and be separate,
says the Lord.
Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”
18 And, “I will be a Father to you,
and you will be my sons and daughters,
says the Lord Almighty.”
7:1 Therefore,
since we have these promises, dear friends,
let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit,
perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
Soak on that. Feel the tender heart of God and consider the eternal merits of choosing godliness over the passing pleasure of sin.
Ken Stoltzfus
Kidron, Ohio USA
December 8, 2025
Printable pdf at: www.10minas.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/25-35.pdf