Regarding the sinful, immoral practices of his day, the apostle Paul said that those practicing such things ‘receive in themselves the full recompense, which is due for their error.’ (Rom. 1:27) Because of the widespread “new morality”​—which in most cases is simply the sin of immorality—​there is an epidemic of venereal diseases, as well as unwanted pregnancies, abortions, broken marriages and emotional instabilities. Surely, people having such unhappy experiences are suffering because of their sinful course.

A more serious sin may bring harder consequences. Imagine a married Christian man who commits adultery in a moment of temptation. Of course, if he is truly repentant, Jehovah will forgive even such a serious sin. But just think of the suffering the man’s conscience will inflict on him first! Reflect on the embarrassment of going to the mature Christian men in the congregation to confess the wrong and request their help. (Jas. 5:13-15) Think of the anguish that the man’s mate will feel, and consider all the efforts that he will have to make gradually to rebuild trust and unity in his marriage​—if his wife forgives him at all! How much better not to sin in the first place!