Read Proverbs 28:1-14

This morning I want to share some thoughts from Proverbs 28:13, "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy."

This verse is very important in relation to sin and the manner in which it impacts our lives.  There are two principles here, and both must be given our attention.  First, the person who covers his sin will not prosper.  Sin is something that one must deal with immediately - to confess it and forsake it.  However, many people allow sin to not only remain a part of their life, but they cover up the fact that it is even present.  The Scriptures warn, "...be sure your sin will find you out."  (Numbers 32:23)  Dr. David Sorenson has stated, "Sin has a pervasive way of catching up.  It eventually floats to the surface.  This is especially so of the sin of moral or financial impropriety."

The second principle is positive, "...but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them (sin) shall have mercy."    This is the proper way to handle sin.  This is a perfect picture of repentance.  Repentance is a change of heart that results in a change of direction.  Confession isn't you revealing a secret to God, He sees and knows all, it is you agreeing with God about your sin.  God is forever the One who determines what is right and wrong, what is sinful and what isn't.  The first step in dealing with sin is to agree with God that it is wrong (this is a confession).  Once you have confessed your sin you must forsake our sin.  Many confess their sin and then go right back to it.  This isn't repentance.  You must change not only your heart but also your direction.  If you will confess any sin, and then forsake that sin you shall have mercy.  That is the precious promise found in God's Word.  Read Isaiah 55:7, Psalm 32:5, and 1 John 1:9.  They speak the truth about sin and God's response to us when we embrace the principles found in Proverbs 28:13.

Have a great day in your meditations and seek every opportunity to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Can you prosper in life by covering your sin?  How should you deal with sin according to God’s Word?

2.  What might be some of the reasons why people seek to cover their sins?

3.  Is confession letting God in on something about which He is unaware?  What is biblical confession?

4.  What steps can you take to begin forsaking sin in your life?