In Paul’s writing to the Thessalonians, he described iniquity as a mystery. We may not know all the details of this mystery, but one thing is clear; that is, sin works in collaboration. In other words, hardly will you see someone who has problem with just one particular sin. One sin always intertwines another. This is one reason that you cannot deal with sin on a piecemeal basis. He who must be free from sin must sign up with Jesus whose Blood cleanses from all sins.

In all probability, you will detest what gets you angry and be angry about what you detest…those who are angry may soon switch to murderous intent…The way to be victorious over sin is to nip it in the bud.

Here is an illustration of the collaboration within the mystery of iniquity. Take for instance the sin of anger. More often than not, the other side of it will be hatred. This even applies to cases where there is positive display of anger. In all probability, you will detest what gets you angry and be angry about what you detest. The first murder case in history was because Cain was angry. His brother’s offering was accepted while his was rejected. Joseph’s story also clearly demonstrates that those who are angry may soon switch to murderous intent. In two successive verses, we noticed the reasons why Joseph’s brothers hated him. Genesis 37:4 records that they noticed that their father had a liking for Joseph, and understandably so. He was a child of his old age, born after years of agonizing wait, and that coming from a beloved wife. Joseph’s brethren did not find that acceptable. Here comes Joseph again, sharing a dream which put him in position of authority over his brethren. That took his brothers’ hatred for him to a new level. Unfolding events were their plans to eliminate him. It is in this light too that we can recall the relationship between Saul and David. The moment Saul noticed that the women were singing the praise of the young champion, hatred welled up in him, and he began to seek ways to kill David. The way to be victorious over sin is to nip it in the bud.