Each of us has made mistakes that were a natural result of blindness of mind—we call them sins of ignorance or errors of judgment. However, enlightenment removes ignorance. If no changes are made when light is given and behavior against heavenly principles continues knowingly, these are no longer considered sins of ignorance, but become presumptuous sins, showing that self has not been crucified to sin.
Remember, presumptuous sins include those actions that are continued when choosing not to walk in the light of God’s word. The following statement explains this perfectly:
“Duties change in character with the increase of light. When the light shines, making manifest and reproving the errors that were undiscovered, there must be a corresponding change in the life and character. The mistakes that are the natural result of blindness of mind are, when pointed out, no longer sins of ignorance or errors of judgment; but unless there are decided reforms in accordance with the light given, they then become presumptuous sins. The moral darkness that surrounds you will become more dense; your heart will become harder and harder, and you will be more offensive in the sight of God. … When the light is received and acted upon, you will be crucified to sin, being dead indeed unto the world, but alive to God. Your idols will be abandoned, and your example will be on the side of self-denial rather than that of self-indulgence.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 435. (Emphasis added.)
It is deadly to ignore the light God has given in any area of our lives, whether it is physical, mental or spiritual.
“He desires that their souls shall be imbued [saturated] with the principles of heaven; then, as they come in contact with the world, they will reveal the light that is in them. Their steadfast fidelity in every act of life will be a means of illumination.” The Ministry of Healing, 36. (Emphasis added.)
Those who choose to ignore the light of God’s word, but continue in presumptuous sin, will be left in utter darkness.
God desires for His people a steadfast fidelity in every facit of life. “By us the light, the power, of a living truth is to be given to the world. From us there is to shine forth to those in darkness a clear, steady light, kept alive by the power of God. We are charged to use the light given us to create other lights that our fellow men may rejoice in the truth. Let us not disregard the charge. Suppose that the sun should refuse to shine, what terrible darkness and confusion would result! For us to refuse to let our light shine to those in darkness is to contract guilt, the magnitude of which cannot be computed.” The Review and Herald, September 17, 1903.
Be united with Christ and dead to sin. “Union with Christ means an unfailing preference for Him in every act and thought of our lives.” The Signs of the Times, March 23, 1888.
To walk in the Light as He has shown is our only safety to protect against committing presumptuous sins. Remember the prayer of David: “Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.” Psalm 19:13.
Heavenly Father: “Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me.” Give me the strength through Your grace to not be afraid to walk in all the light that You have shown me through Your word. I claim Your promise in II Corinthians 12:9 that “Your grace is sufficient for me.” Amen.