YOU CAN REMAIN MORALLY CLEAN

Enduring the Consequences of Sin

Jehovah forgave David.  Why?  Because David was a man of integrity, because he was merciful to others, and because his repentance was genuine.  Nevertheless, David was not shielded from the disastrous consequences that followed.  (2 Samuel 12:9-14)  the same is true today.  Although Jehovah does not bring evil upon repentant ones, he does not spare them from the natural consequences of their wrong actions.  (Galatians 6:7)  Among the results of sexual immorality may be divorce, unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease, and the loss of trust and respect.

If we personally have erred seriously, it is easy to feel disheartened while suffering the consequences of the mistakes we have made.  Nevertheless, we should let nothing hold us back from repenting and becoming reconciled to God.  During the first century, Paul wrote to the Corinthians that they should remove from the congregation a man who was practicing incestuous fornication.  (1Corinthians 5:1, 13) After the man genuinely repented, Paul instructed the congregation:  "Kingly forgive and comfort him [and] confirm your love for him."  (2 Corinthians  2:5-8) In this inspired counsel, we see Jehovah's love and mercy toward repentant sinners.  Angels in heaven rejoice when a sinner repents. -Luke 15:10.

 Though saddened by a wrong course, the regret we feel can help us to 'be on or guard that we do not turn again to what is hurtful.'  (Job 36:21) Indeed, the bitter consequences of sin should deter us from repeating a wrong.  Moreover, David used the sad experience gained from his sinful conduct to counsel others.  He said:  'I will teach transgressors your ways, that sinners themselves may turn right back to you." -Psalm 51:13.

Next time: Happiness Comes From Serving Jehovah

Watchtower, 2000