If you’re exploring faith, you’ve probably heard the word sin mentioned before. But what does it really mean—and why does it matter?

Here’s the simple truth: sin is anything that separates us from God. It’s more than just breaking rules—it’s stepping outside of the life God intended for us.

Sin Is Missing the Mark

The original word for sin in the Bible means “to miss the target.” God created us to live in perfect relationship with Him—full of love, trust, and purpose. But all of us have missed that mark.

“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.”

—Romans 3:23 (NLT)

Sin shows up in things like pride, selfishness, anger, lust, lies—even when we ignore God or choose our way over His.

Sin Separates Us from God

God is holy, which means completely pure and perfect. Our sin creates a gap between us and Him—one we can’t fix on our own.

“Your sins have cut you off from God.”

—Isaiah 59:2 (NLT)

That’s the bad news. But the good news is that God didn’t leave us there.

Jesus Came to Deal with Sin

Jesus didn’t come to make bad people good—He came to bring dead people back to life.

He took the punishment for sin on Himself at the cross, so we could be forgiven and set free.

“But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”

—Romans 5:8 (NLT)

Through Jesus, the gap is closed. The relationship is restored.

Sin Doesn’t Have to Have the Final Word

When we confess our sin and turn to Jesus, He wipes the slate clean. We don’t have to live in guilt, shame, or fear. We can walk in freedom.

“If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us… and to cleanse us from all wickedness.”

—1 John 1:9 (NLT)

Final Thought

Sin is serious—but God’s love is greater.

You don’t have to stay stuck in the past. Jesus has already made a way back.

All He asks is that you turn to Him—and let Him lead you into a brand-new life.