Croft M. Pentz said, “Every sinner must either be punished or pardoned.” This is a true statement. It is also a sobering statement. Since all of us are sinners who “come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23), we should take notice of the fact that there are only two alternatives awaiting us: pardon or punishment! It is up to each one of us to make the right decision.

Never plant a seed you are unwilling to reap. Do you not realize that as you plant, you will reap? “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:7). How can we deceive ourselves in thinking that we are exempt from the truth thus stated? Are we exempt? Will we not have to stand before God in judgment? What verdict will be read then?

Sin brings shame to our lives, but confession of wrongs brings renewal of confidence and trust in our blessed hope. To those who have this assuring hope, the Savior will say, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you…” (Matthew 25:34). These have been pardoned. To the rest, He will say, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels…” (Matthew 25:41). Truly, there shall be punishment or pardon. Which will it be?