As I reflect on my own life, I see we have the residue of past behaviors. Unfortunately, as a follower of Christ, we can leave negative impressions on others when we fall into sin. I was recently reminded by a person who brought up my previous adultery. Even though this is years and years ago, the residue still is in the memory. It is said that an alcoholic is always an alcoholic even if he or she never drinks alcohol again. I have talked with many former drug and alcoholic addicted people. Most gave it up and could not return. They say they have to stay sober to make it.
Although I would consider myself cured and non-practicing, I would not identify myself as an adulterer anymore. According to 1 Cor 6:9 that would disqualify me from inheriting the kingdom of God. I have made a course correction. I have repented and turned from it. Honestly, when Svetlana came into my life, she prayed for me and my life changed. Words cannot express how she influenced my life to a positive faith.
The apostle Paul was a murderer and persecutor of Christians. After repenting and turning to Christ, several times in the Book of Acts, we find he was not easy to get along with. For example, he spit with Barnabas and had an argument with Peter. We tend to side with Paul because much of the Book of Acts tells us about the initial spread of the gospel. yet a wise person can see Paul made his mistakes. He even describes a thorn in his flesh that God does not take away because His grace is sufficient for us. A person needs grace when they mess up i.e. sin. I think of someone with whom I worked that reminds me of the apostle Paul. He could really get tasks done. I managed to get along with him and agreed with the vast majority of what he was trying to accomplish. But he was like a bull charging into matters and the top leadership forced him out.
Although I would consider myself cured and non-practicing, I would not identify myself as an adulterer anymore. According to 1 Cor 6:9 that would disqualify me from inheriting the kingdom of God. I have made a course correction. I have repented and turned from it. Honestly, when Svetlana came into my life, she prayed for me and my life changed. Words cannot express how she influenced my life to a positive faith.
The apostle Paul was a murderer and persecutor of Christians. After repenting and turning to Christ, several times in the Book of Acts, we find he was not easy to get along with. For example, he spit with Barnabas and had an argument with Peter. We tend to side with Paul because much of the Book of Acts tells us about the initial spread of the gospel. yet a wise person can see Paul made his mistakes. He even describes a thorn in his flesh that God does not take away because His grace is sufficient for us. A person needs grace when they mess up i.e. sin. I think of someone with whom I worked that reminds me of the apostle Paul. He could really get tasks done. I managed to get along with him and agreed with the vast majority of what he was trying to accomplish. But he was like a bull charging into matters and the top leadership forced him out.
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