by Neema Joshua | 18 April 2020 08:46 pm04
When we do good, it benefits us, not God. Similarly, when we commit sin, the harm affects us, not God. For example, regarding sexual immorality, the Bible says that sin is ultimately destructive to the one who commits it. Proverbs 6:32 warns:
“But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself.” (Proverbs 6:32-33)
This shows that sins like adultery, theft, or murder do not harm God—they harm our fellow humans and, ultimately, ourselves. Every sin carries consequences for the sinner, not for God. Likewise, acts of righteousness also primarily benefit us. When God commands us to do good, it is for our own welfare. Just as someone who prevents a person from self-harm acts to protect them, God restrains us from sin for our own good. Without His guidance, we would ruin ourselves completely.
For example, Luke 6:38 says:
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
This verse emphasizes that God’s instructions are not to please Himself but to ensure we receive blessings. The principle of sowing and reaping applies: our good deeds toward others eventually bring good things to us, and wrongdoing brings harm. God does not need our obedience or righteousness for His benefit; He wants us to flourish and avoid self-destruction.
When God instructs us not to commit adultery, steal, murder, or dishonor our parents, it is for our benefit in this life and the life to come—not because God gains from our obedience. Job 35:5-8 further clarifies this:
“Look up at the heavens and see;
gaze at the clouds so high above you.
If you sin, what do you accomplish against him?
If you are righteous, what do you give him?
Your wickedness affects only a human like you, and your righteousness only benefits other humans.”
Every act of sin or rebellion harms us personally. Just as repeated sins do not diminish God’s glory, they destroy the sinner’s life gradually—like eating away at oneself. Preaching, correction, and guidance from God exist because He loves us and desires our benefit, not because He gains anything from our actions.
We often hear the phrase “these are the last days.” Indeed, the times are short, and soon Christ will take His followers. Everyone will reap what they have sown on earth. The righteous will be taken, while the unrepentant—regardless of religious affiliation, appearances, or outward rituals—will remain and face tribulation. Earthly pleasures, sinful indulgences, and worldly distractions will no longer exist when God’s judgment comes. The Lake of Fire, created for Satan and his angels, will ultimately be the destiny of the unrepentant.
Today, the call is urgent: focus on righteousness, live according to God’s Word, and understand that obedience is for your benefit. Spiritual vigilance now ensures your safety, blessings, and eternal life.
Maranatha!
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