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Matthew 3:9 - "And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham"The Law abiding Pharisees attempted to use their heritage as an EXCUSE to prove their spirituality. They were ardent on the laws of God, but void of faith. Therefore, if you are not careful, you can become Pharisaical with excuses which produce a 'self confidence' to continue in sinfulness of seeing yourself above the law instead of allowing the law to judge. Most, who are given to excuses, will habitually desire to defend their sinful actions instead stopping and recognizing the truth so that God can grant them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth => 2 Timothy 2:25: "In meekness instructing those that OPPOSE themselves; if God peradventure will GIVE them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth." <= God does not allow for excuses and the longer a person lives in their excuses the heavier life will become as that person drags their sins behind them.FORGIVENESS: Acts 26:18 - To OPEN their eyes, and to TURN them from darkness to light, and FROM the power of Satan unto God, that they may RECEIVE forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified BY faith that is in me. Only God can OPEN your eyes to sinfulness. Many know they are wrong but when you 'excuse' your actions, your eyes are will remain closed since that person has yet to turn from darkness to light -- from the power of Satan unto God.If you are one who has to make excuses for your sin then your life will sooner or later wear down as you grow weary from hauling around your sinfulness.Sin will take its toil on you but God's grace can lift the burden but it will not happen as long as you believe your own EXCUSES.