Secrecy Conquered

"For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open."

-Luke 8:17 (NIV)-

     Every single one of us has had or currently has a secret. Each of us has had or still has a habit, a thought, an action, a perspective, an attitude, a belief, a something that only we know about. This is because we either haven't shared with others out of shame and guilt or because we only have or do these things when we are by ourselves!

      Remember, "There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1, NIV). For those of you struggling with something embarassing or something that makes you feel guilty, seek out a Christian brother or sister. Talk to an elder in the church. Talk to your Pastor. No matter how embarassing it might be to admit or reveal, nobody who belongs to Jesus and who truly has Him living within them will ever think less of you. In fact, you might even receive the response of, "Thank you." It takes a lot of courage to admit a secret to someone because you need accountability to overcome it.

       Unfortunately, society has a bad habit of thinking that addictions only come in the form of alcohol or drugs. What about the addiction to self-importance or inflated self-worth? There's even an addiction to over-commitment because then the mentality becomes, 'What will possibly happen if I stop working in so many capacities?' The world will go on. That's what will happen. However, addiction comes in many forms. And it can even creep on you with a habit or mentality you're not expecting. The worst kind of lie is, "It's not that bad." That is a peculiar word as it allows for comparison. But to what teachings are we to compare our life doctrine, beliefs, values and walk to? Jesus's teachings. Do not be discouraged, however because we are being trained to, "renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age" (Titus 2:12, ESV).

       How do we develop self-control? Hebrews 12:11 (ESV) reminds us to be thankful for discipline: "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."

       How do we become upright and godly? By choosing God's way of doing things, not ours. If you have a question about what you should be thinking about or doing, check the Bible. Pray. If you're confused, remember, God is not the author of confusion. Ask a trusted friend or someone in a leadership position at the church. Go to a Bible study. Join a small group. Start a small group for discussion on tough questions like you have. Don't have the time? Pray. Pray unceasingly for God to reveal His wisdom and knowledge to you. Remember, James 1:5-6, "If you want to know what God wants you to do, ask him, and he will gladly tell you … But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to tell you."

     If you have a secret you've been hanging on to that only you know, open up. Pray about it. Ask God to forgive you for this secretive behavior, action, attitude, whatever it is! Then, find someone with whom will keep you accountable. Whenever you have that urge to commit it or when you do slip, tell them. Ask them to pray for you and expect encouragement. You're on the right road.

     Some verses for you to jot down to keep with you for this particular challenge:

Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

-2 Corinthians 12:8-9

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

-Hebrews 4:16

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

-1 Peter 5:10

 

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

-1 Corinthians 10:13

For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.

-2 Peter 1:5-7

      Don't give up. Whatever secret habit, attitude or action you're hiding, don't be afraid and don't be discouraged. You are loved beyond measure and understood. Accountability is important and grace will always abound for you. The Holy Spirit will gladly nudge you and keep you in check if you ask Jesus for his help with awareness of your tendancy toward this challenge. And remember, he will not let it become so overpowering that there is no way out. You can do it!