In I Kings 9 Solomon spoke a prayer of dedication for the newly constructed temple in Jerusalem. In :46 he prayed regarding his people: “When they sin against You (for there is no man who does not sin) …”. This is a very wise and understanding prayer. And the word “WHEN” is a key. Solomon knew that it was not a matter of “IF” the people of Israel would sin, but “WHEN.” We are all born sinners by nature, and as long as we live, we are still prone to sin. Thus it is not “if” we will sin, but “WHEN” — even for the best of us.

— We need to realize that about those who are close to us, and be understanding. A parent can pray this about their child, or a husband or wife about their spouse: “When they sin against You (for there is no man who does not sin …”. Do not be surprised when various sins are manifest in the life of your loved one; it is not “if” they sin, but “WHEN”!

— We should understand that same thing about all people with whom we have dealings. Do not be surprised that they have shortcomings; it is not “if” they sin, but “WHEN.” No matter who they are, or how much you love or respect them, they WILL sin. They are human beings, and “if we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves.” (I John 1:8)

— One of the reasons we should be so understanding regarding the inevitability of the sin of others, is that the same thing is true of US as well. We too are prone to sin. It is not “if” we ourselves sin, but “WHEN.” That truth should temper our outlook regarding both ourselves and others. Do not judge others too harshly when they sin. As Solomon said, “There is no man who does not sin.” Even you! It is not “if”, but “WHEN” you sin. That is why there is no room among the people of God for a self-righteous or judgmental spirit — and why we should be so thankful for our Savior!