We often try to justify our departure from being obedient to God. We have all heard and/or used the excuses of "everyone else is doing it", "I'll go but I won't participate" or "There is nothing wrong with ...". And many times, the risks seem minimal - at the beginning. It is only after getting hooked upon the act do we realize just how far we have strayed from God's will.
Jesus did not classify sin by size or severity (except one). In his teachings, sin was sin. So it is hard for us to justify how minimal an act of sin may be. Much like our relationships with our spouses, an act against them (big or small) breaks down the closeness you share in your relationship. You may try to justify your actions but the chasm is still there. There is only one way to close the gap with your spouse or your Master - forgiveness.
Why do we try to justify our actions? If we stop and recognize who is in control and ask for his assistance, he will assist us in resisting the temptations. "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7). If we stop justifying your actions and start submitting ourselves to Christ, we will not have to deal with the final payment!
