How have you seen your life or the life of someone you know impacted by sexual sin?
The pattern of sin is described in this passage that we looked at on Sunday:
James 1:13–15 (NLT)
And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.
In your own words, what is the pattern of falling into sin?
What are some of the defenses and safeguards that you have in place that help you move in the right direction, rather than settling in with sin?
In what areas of your life could you use more moral margin? How can you go about creating that margin?
Romans 6:12–14 (NLT)
Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace.
God has given us a higher calling, to life, rather than to death. All of us face temptation to go in the wrong direction. Describe how you have been able to live up to that standard and how difficult it can be.
How can we help each other in living with moral margin?