An Ounce of Prevention. . .

Abe Miller, Senior Minister
Thu Jul 10 11:08:03 MST 2008

                 Most of us have heard the proverbial statement, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” In other words, it is easier to prevent negative things from happening than it is to solve the problem that has been created by our carelessness. Another way of saying it , if I take a little bit of time to think before I speak or act I can avoid hurting others. I am reasonably sure that I have hurt people, not meaning to, that I have never found out about. But those I have found out about have affirmed this truth to me that it was much harder to solve the problem than it would have been to take some time to think ahead of time.

               God’s forgiveness can become a misguided excuse for one to continue in sin. We all know people who believe in God, but refuse to change their lives because they feel they can ask for God’s forgiveness later, or on a premeditated basis plan to ask God for forgiveness and go ahead and do the wrong. We need to work at preventing sins from taking control of our lives before one spark leads to a huge fire. Indeed, we can count on God to forgive us, but as the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Why is this statement applicable? Consider the worldly and social ramifications of sin, we do not live in a vacuum. Our lives touch the lives of many others around  us. Our sins can affect other people as well as  ourselves. Sin can destroy trust, erode relationships, and damage those around us in many ways. Rebuilding after the effects of some sins can take far more than a pound of cure. This world does not forgive and forget as easily as does our loving Father.

            So, we must work to prevent sin in our lives. As Christians, we should also try to repair relationships with those who have been affected by our sins. While we may not need anything besides God’s forgiveness, failure to seek forgiveness and reconciliation is sinful as well. Our ability to proclaim the gospel through our lives is severely compromised if we fall into such a cycle of sin.

            Only you can prevent forest fire, but only God can help to keep us from sin. We do our part by being watchful and aware of our weaknesses, but only God can give us the strength to endure and the humble servant-heart needed when we fail. God really can change us and transform us if we let Him.

            Perhaps a few Scriptures from Proverbs can help us. Proverbs 17:9, “He who covers over an offense promotes love.” Proverbs 18:19 “An offended brother is  more unyielding than a fortified city.” Proverbs 19:11, “A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is his glory to overlook an offense.” Psalm 139:24, “See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” These Scriptures can help us get along with each other in spite of our imperfections. This is what God expects from His people.