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Do We Call What is Holy “Sin” (and What is Sin “Holy”)

When I was first a believer, I had a very strong view of what was right and what was wrong.

I had a sense that anything I was uncomfortable with was definitely wrong.

After a lot of of life…and sadly time away from Jesus…and God healing and redeeming my journey, I’ve come to realize that there are things I am uncomfortable with, but are not necessarily sin.

And there are things I am comfortable with that aren’t sin necessarily.

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Quote from a recent Coaching Program graduate:

The program is great! I love the focus on self-growth, personal responsibility and spiritual practices that unlock God’s love in our heart and the heart of our spouse. God truly used this program to change my life…

I have a softened heart toward my wife now. I desire to love her the way God desires. I went from a miserable and sexless marriage to a wonderful and passionate sex-filled marriage!

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Because you and I are not meant to be led by what’s comfortable.

We are meant to be led by the word of God.

Today, I want to tackle some really important topics that will help, I think, clarify topics and themes that often trip Christians up.

And it makes people love each other less.

In your marriage. And your friendships. And your schools. And your workplace.

We want to be defining our life in our direction.

We do not want to be defining how we should behave and what we should do and what we should think simply because it’s the opposite of what the world does.

We need to define ourselves by what God wants us to be doing.

So today, I’m hoping that when you listen, you will gain a level of freedom in your heart and thoughts that you maybe didn’t have before listening.

Because God calls us to freedom.

In our relationships, in our thoughts, and in our hearts.

That’s why he came to set us free.

And I want that for you.

Let’s get into it.

Blessings,

Belah

PS – Make the appointment today. Schedule a free Clarity Call (before Coaching prices increase!)

PPS – Here is a quote from another recent Coaching program graduate:
My biggest marital struggle was resentment and poor communication. I was so unhappy.
My husband is my best friend, and I didn’t want to be around him or be intimate…
[Now,] our communication is so much better.
I learned to be vulnerable which showed him I trust him. In return he feels safe to be vulnerable with me.

Here is an AI-generated summary of today’s episode:

Embracing Biblical Freedom Without Compromising Truth

Belah shares a heartfelt reflection on navigating complex, sometimes controversial topics through the lens of Scripture. She emphasizes that the Bible—not culture or reaction to culture—must be the ultimate authority. While some issues are clearly defined as sin (like sexual immorality, pornography, and strife), others require discernment, maturity, and humility.

Romans 14: When Convictions Differ Among Believers

Using Romans 14 as a foundation, Belah explains that not all disagreements among Christians are matters of sin. Some are personal convictions. She encourages listeners to examine whether their concerns are truly biblical issues—or personal sensitivities that shouldn’t lead to judgment of others.

The Difference Between Sin and Personal Conscience

Belah highlights the importance of distinguishing between:

• Clear biblical sin (e.g., lust, rage, discord), and
• Personal boundaries or convictions (e.g., food choices, social media use)

She shares personal examples—like avoiding sugar or social media—to illustrate that what is restrictive for one person may be freedom for another.

Reclaiming God’s Design for Sex in Marriage

A major focus is correcting misunderstandings around intimacy. Belah explains:

• Sexual immorality is clearly condemned in Scripture.
• But within marriage, sex is meant to be free, joyful, and passionate.

She addresses how past exposure to unhealthy sexuality can distort a believer’s view, leading them to wrongly label healthy marital intimacy as sinful.

Don’t Reject Truth Just Because the World Uses It

Belah tackles topics like:

• Visualization and faith
• Meditation
• Joy and laughter

She explains that these are God-created principles often misused by the world. Instead of rejecting them outright, believers should reclaim them in a way that honors God—giving Him the credit and remaining submitted to His will.

The Danger of “Opposite-of-the-World” Thinking

Rather than simply doing the opposite of what culture does, Belah urges believers to:

• Filter everything through Scripture
• Recognize “half-truths” in the world
• Use wisdom to discern what aligns with God’s design

Love and Kindness Are Not Optional in Christianity

Belah challenges the idea that truth can exist without love. She reminds listeners:

• “They will know we are Christians by our love.”
• Kindness, patience, and genuine affection are biblical commands—not worldly compromises.

Walking in Freedom While Honoring God

Drawing from Galatians 5, Belah emphasizes that:

• Christians are called to freedom
• But that freedom should never serve selfish desires
• Instead, it should lead to loving and serving others

A Thoughtful Perspective on Women in Leadership

Belah briefly addresses the nuanced topic of women teaching and leading. She shares her personal conviction while acknowledging the complexity of Scripture. Ultimately, she prioritizes:

• Faithfulness to God’s calling
• Responsibility to speak truth
• Eternal impact over fear of criticism

Healing Your Marriage Through Christ-Centered Love

Belah closes with a strong call to action:

• If there is a lack of joy or delight in your marriage, there is work to be done
• True transformation begins with personal surrender to God
• Loving your spouse well is part of your obedience to Christ

Final Encouragement: Freedom, Joy, and Obedience

Belah reminds listeners that God’s desire is not confusion, but freedom, joy, and peace in the Holy Spirit. By aligning with Scripture, surrendering personal desires, and choosing love, believers can experience deeper intimacy with both God and their spouse.