The Struggle of Secret Sin

All of us face a common temptation to sin, especially in secret. Our particular temptations may be different, but our struggle with sin is real.  God has a lot to say to help us as we struggle with secret sin.

For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.
Romans 7:15 “

Secret Sin Is Common.  In the story of Moses, before he commits murder, he looks around to see if he is alone. His hope, as he sinned, was to keep his sin secret. Do you have a struggle that you are seeking to keep secret? You are not alone in this temptation and struggle.

“He looked this way and that, and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand” (Exodus 2:12 ).

Secret Sin Gets Exposed.  Even if we feel we have hidden our sin from others, God wants us to know that He knows. God warns us because he wants us to confess our sin, change direction with our life, and to find healing and restoration with Him and others. Ultimately all sin is against God, so we must take it seriously and take proper steps of repentance towards Him.

“behold, you have sinned against the LORD, and be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23).

Secret Sin Has External Consequences.  When Moses murdered, very real consequences followed with him being forced to flee the home and people he had known for his whole life. Our sin has real, life-impacting consequences. The quicker we confess and repent, the quicker the healing and relief can occur.

“Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known” (Luke 12:2).

Secret Sin Has Internal Consequences.  When you carry around your sin, it tears you up on the inside. When you confess your sin and carry it to Christ, you realize and enjoy such a relief from the burden. Are you ready for relief?

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

Confession Leads to Healing.  Secret sin Has relational consequences.  When we sin, our relationships with God and others are damaged. Our God is so merciful and gracious to offer us a way back to Him and, as best as possible for us, to try to restore our human relationships.

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed” (James 5:16).

Repentance Leads to Restoration.  Without confession to, repentance towards, and trust in Jesus we remain under condemnation. In Christ, we will be convicted to confess and repent in such a way that we experience and enjoy His goodness in an amazing way. Is there a sin you need to confess? Go to Jesus and go to those you’ve hurt and experience the goodness of Jesus.

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).