Scripture (KJV) – Proverbs 28:13
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”
Reflection
Human nature often tells us to hide our failures. We may try to cover our sin from our family, our friends, our church, or anyone else who might think differently about us if they knew the truth.
We may even succeed in hiding something from other people.
But we can never hide it from God.
This verse gives us two completely different responses to sin. The first person tries to cover it. The second person confesses and forsakes it.
There is an important difference between confessing sin and merely admitting that we did something wrong. Biblical confession should lead toward repentance. Solomon does not simply say, “whoso confesseth.” He says, “whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”
God does not want us to become comfortable with sin. When the Holy Spirit convicts us through the Word of God, we should not defend ourselves, blame someone else, or search for an excuse. We should agree with God about what we have done and turn away from it.
There is also wonderful hope in this verse.
“Shall have mercy.”
God’s desire is not to leave the repentant person buried beneath guilt. Through Jesus Christ there is forgiveness. The same God who exposes our sin offers mercy when we come to Him honestly.
Maybe there is something you have been trying to hide. Other people may know nothing about it, but God already does. You do not need to keep running from Him.
Confess it. Forsake it. Bring it before God and receive His mercy.
The safest place for our sin is not underneath a covering of excuses. It is under the blood of Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, search my life and show me anything I have tried to hide, excuse, or hold onto. Give me the humility to confess my sin and the strength to turn away from it. Thank You that Your mercy is greater than my failures and that forgiveness is available through Jesus Christ. Help me to walk honestly before You and never become comfortable with anything that separates my fellowship from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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