
If what we would like to do is not a sin then it shouldn't
matter if we do it, right? Well not so
fast. Just because something isn't a sin doesn't mean it’s what we ought to do.
Example 1: A
family in the ward is moving this Saturday.
They asked for volunteers. I have the time, but I’m not really
interested. It’s not a sin if I don’t go. So is it OK to not show up?
Example 2: The
new Sports Illustrated is coming out this next week. It is the annual swim suit
edition. It’s not porn, so it’s not a
sin. Therefore, is it OK for me to buy it?
Example 3: There
is an item I have wanted for months.
It’s now on sale.
However, to be able to buy it I will need to postpone paying my tithing
this month. I can pay double tithing
next month. So is it OK to postpone my tithing?
Example 4: I've
been really good. Is it OK is if I skip
my “dailies” just for today?
Example 5: This
has been a temptation for me in the past. But I’m feeling stronger. So I should be able to try again?
None of the examples I've listed involve sin, at least
nothing obvious. But you might think of
them as being in that “gray area.” Show how
should I decide?
Here is a trick that I have used at times. Instead of saying to myself, “Self, it’s not
a sin so I can do what I want.” Instead
of saying that, I say, “Will it make Satan happy?” That question seems to make the right
decision a lot more obvious.
Somehow we know, deep inside, the things that will make Satan
happy. Those are the things we probably shouldn't do. Try it out on the listed above.Then try it out for yourself. Let me know what you think.
P.S. Keep in mind, that because of an addiction,
your answers to some questions may be different than the answers for someone
without an addiction.
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