Lucas Leibforth

We live in a culture that promotes the pursuit of personal happiness, no matter the cost. If it feels good, do it. If it makes you happy, chase it. But as Christians, we know that not everything that feels good is good for us. Sin often masquerades as something desirable—something that will bring fulfillment, excitement, or relief. But the harsh reality is that sin always separates us from God.

Sin Creates Distance

Isaiah 59:2 puts it plainly: “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.” Sin erects a barrier between us and God, not because God moves away from us, but because we move away from Him.

Think of your relationship with Jesus like a friendship. If you constantly lied to your friend, ignored their advice, or acted in ways that hurt them, the relationship would inevitably suffer. The same is true with Jesus. When we pursue sin, we prioritize it over our relationship with Him.

The Subtle Nature of Sin

The pursuit of sin isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it’s wrapped in socially acceptable behaviors or hidden under the guise of self-care. Maybe it’s gossip disguised as concern. Maybe it’s greed masked as ambition. Or perhaps it’s sexual sin rationalized by cultural norms.

Whatever form it takes, sin clouds our spiritual vision and dulls our sensitivity to God’s voice. It slowly erodes our intimacy with Jesus, making it harder to hear Him, trust Him, and follow His lead.

Conviction vs. Condemnation

Here’s an important distinction: when we talk about sin, it’s not about living in shame or guilt. Conviction comes from the Holy Spirit and draws us closer to God, prompting us to repent and return to Him. Condemnation, on the other hand, comes from the enemy and drives us away from God.

If you’re feeling distant from Jesus, it’s worth asking: Is there a sin I’m holding onto? Is there something I’ve justified, minimized, or ignored that’s creating distance between me and God?

The Freedom of Surrender

When we surrender our pursuit of sin, we experience the true freedom Jesus offers. John 8:36 reminds us, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Freedom isn’t found in indulging every desire; it’s found in living fully surrendered to Christ.

The pursuit of sin will always hinder your relationship with Jesus, but repentance and grace will always restore it. Don’t settle for distance when intimacy with Jesus is available. He’s waiting, arms open, ready to welcome you back.