Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

May 30– Evening

by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“From now on we should not serve sin.” 

—Romans 6:6

Christian, what do you have to do with sin? Hasn’t it cost you enough already? Dear burnt child, will you still play with fire? When you know what it is to be in the jaws of the lion, will you step a second time into his den? Have you not had enough of the old serpent? Did he not poison you, yet you wish to play at the hole of the snake and put your hand in the path of the cobra a second time?

Don’t be crazy! Don’t be so foolish! Did sin ever give you real pleasure? Did you find satisfaction in it? If so, then go back to your chains again. But since sin never gave you what it promised, but deluded you with lies, don’t be caught a second time in the fowler’s nets, but be free! Let the remembrance of your ancient bondage keep you from entering his net ever again!

Serving sin is contrary to the designs of eternal love which always lead to purity and holiness; therefore, don’t run against the purposes of your Lord. Remember, Christians can never sin cheaply; they pay a heavy price. Transgression destroys peace of mind, obscures fellowship with Jesus, hinders prayer, and brings darkness over the soul. Don’t be slave of sin. And hear this— each time you choose to “serve sin” you “Crucify the Lord afresh and put him to an open shame.” Can you bear that thought?

Oh, if you have fallen into special sin in recent days, it may be that your Master has sent this warning to you this evening; he wishes to bring you back before you have fallen very far. Turn to Jesus anew! He has not forgotten his love for you. His grace is still the same. With weeping and repentance, come to his footstool, and you will once more be received into his heart. You will be set upon a rock again to live securely in him. [M&E]