I was thinking today… about mistakes. We all make mistakes. I think one of the biggest skewed views of Christ followers is that we don’t make mistakes. How often do you hear someone say, “How could they say that, do that, or think that way – and they call themselves a ‘Christian!’”

Should we be held to a higher standard – Yes! After all, the bible is our moral standard of living. Should we be called out if we get off track – Absolutely! But keep in mind we are human and we do make mistakes. The key thing is to own up to it, ask for forgiveness, forgive others and do better. There may be some who claim to be Christians who don’t do these things and are patronizing or hypocritical, etc., and they will have to answer to God for that.

Sometimes when we become a Christ follower we think that we won’t make any more mistakes. We think everything will be perfect and we will always behave in a God-honoring way. But thinking that way is a mistake in and of itself! We are human, we have flaws, and we can fall back on old habits and tendencies, and we need to be self-aware of those times.

We are all sinners and that’s why we need a Savior. Even the disciples who walked with Jesus here on Earth made mistakes. Again, the key is to ask for forgiveness (for sins we know of and even those we may not be aware of) and ask for help from Jesus to do better.

(1 John 1:8-9) If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

(Acts 3:19) “Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away.”

(Proverbs 28:13-14) Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble.

To God be the Glory,

Lynn Manucci Warrick