Are You in Bondage to a Secret Sin?
Some chains that keep men in bondage are made of iron and placed there by a cruel oppressor. Other shackles, of our own making, are snapped in place like handcuffs on our soul by our own fear…fear that someone will discover our secret. Often it is a secret sin of which we are ashamed, and sometimes we would rather die than see it exposed. Friend, are you hiding such a sin?
Maybe you are saying to yourself, “I confess it to God and no one else needs to know.” Well, how is that working for you? Is your strategy helping you to get free from it? Having harbored a secret sin myself I already know the answer to that one – It is not. My brother, isn’t it time to admit to yourself that you cannot overcome this sin alone? Proverbs 28:13 says, “Whoever conceals his sin will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes it will find mercy.”
The power of a sin is always strengthened by secrecy. As long as we conceal it, our secret sin simply grows stronger and stronger. We are trapped without any hope of freedom except for rescue from a power outside of ourselves. Jesus said in John 8:34, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.”
But there is good news! Jesus also said in John 8:36, “…if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Christ can and will set you free, but He will not do it unless you humble yourself before Him, and a brother, and deal with it out in the open. James 5:16 says, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
Now, I am not talking about confessing to anyone who happens along, but to a mature, trustworthy brother in Christ who will be wise and discreet, like your pastor or Elder. This will not be easy. Satan loves a secret and will give you every excuse to keep it to yourself. But – Don’t Listen to Him! Tell someone – today if possible!
Jesus will give you the courage and strength. Go to Him!
Freedom awaits you!