When a patch of irritated skin formed near my left eye, I used makeup to cover it. Temporarily this kept my problem a secret. After a while, though, the swollen red spot didn’t clear up, and I knew it needed medical attention. On the morning of the doctor’s appointment, I was tempted to apply makeup as usual, but I didn’t. I wanted the doctor to see the problem clearly and treat it so it could heal.
Have you ever tried to hide a sin problem? Maybe you’re aware that some action or thought is controlling you, but you’ve avoided praying about it or mentioning it to friends and family. Maybe you think it’s no big deal because many other people are dealing with similar issues. But it’s impossible to thrive spiritually when sin is secretly fouling up our lives. As Proverbs 28:13 says, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper.” Thankfully the verse continues, “but the one who confesses and renounces [sin] finds mercy” (v. 13).
It can be hard to adopt God’s view of our actions and admit that certain practices are wrong. However, His kindness eases the process of humbling ourselves. When we welcome the power of Christ’s Spirit into our struggle, we can reject the wrong that tempts us (Galatians 5:16-17, 22-24). As God guides us, change is possible, and our spiritual health is worth the effort!
As you consider confessing sin, why is God’s everlasting love encouraging? How might the enemy deceive you in your struggle with sin?
Dear God, please help me yield the areas of sin in my life to You.
Proverbs 28:13-14 focuses on the importance of confession—the good that comes to those who acknowledge their sins. This essential message is consistent with the Bible’s teaching elsewhere in the Old and New Testaments. Psalm 32 shares several words with the Proverbs passage: blessed, cover [conceal], confess. “Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them” (Psalm 32:1-2). “I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord’ ” (v. 5). First John 1:9 shares the encouraging sentiments of these Old Testament texts: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Hiding our sin is unhealthy, but humbly bringing it to light through confession and turning from it leads to life.
