To Miss the Mark

We often define sin as doing something wrong. Though this statement is true, the full definition of sin covers much more.

The definition of the word sin is to miss the mark. The mark of what?

I enjoy target shooting with my rifle. The goal, of course, is to hit the target. To hit the target, I must be very focused, line the target up, hold still, pull the trigger gently, etc. Now, it miss the target is a whole lot easier. I could barely miss the target, or I could be shooting the other direction! Either way, it’s a miss.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23) notice this verse didn’t say “we’ve been wrong” but “fallen short”

So if sin means to miss the mark, what mark are we shooting at? What’s the target? God’s standard and His will.

Whenever we disobey or do something outside God’s will, we sin. Sin is not only doing something wrong; it’s not doing what God commands.

“Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins”—James 4:17

Sin is going against God’s commands, whether it be lying or not loving our neighbor. Think about it. Every time we choose not to be kind, or loving, or be Generous, we are sinning. It’s easy to think “I’m not doing anything wrong!” but are you doing what’s right?