“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Proverbs 14:12, ESV).

His tumor was getting better, though my treatment had led to significant toxicities. He has often spoken of his faith in Christ, and I believe he’s sincere, but on this visit he began to discuss complications from his sexual activity with prostitutes. I asked him, “How does your experience with these women fit with your understanding of the Bible?” He answered with sincerity, “Oh, I’ve never committed adultery” then adding, “I may have done a bit of fornicating.”

My patient and friend reasoned himself out of guilt for breaking the seventh commandment but missed the point of the sacred marital relationship by reasoning himself into sexual sin outside of marriage.

I strongly suspect my patient does love Jesus and will make it to heaven, just as the pastor who soaks in the pride of his large congregation, or the doctor who hoards his money when great needs surround him, or a brother who refuses to forgive his sibling for an insult 10 years before, or me and the sins I have reasoned into my life.

I am almost afraid to examine myself and find the sins I have rationalized myself into accepting. Is there pride, inappropriate relationship, greed, anger or resentment I am accepting as reasonable based on my needs or circumstances? Are there sins I am accepting because I can make earthly sense out of them, even though Godly sense is far from them?

Just so, are there things I have reasoned out of my life that should be part of me? Have I reasoned selfless service, consistent kindness, giving, forgiveness, time for personal devotion or witness for Christ out of my life with reasons that are good enough for me, but not good enough to satisfy my Savior’s words, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Mark 8:34, NIV)?

Dear Father,

Help me to examine my life for actions or inactions I have reasoned into my life that are displeasing to you.

Amen