The Cost Of Hidden Sin

What are your thoughts on hidden sin? I think everyone has secret sins.

It could be thoughts, feelings, or actions. I also believe all sin starts in the mind and heart.

As we ponder the sin over and over, it becomes more real and more desirable. It’s a process of taking temptation to a higher level until we finally act on it.

Are you familiar with Reuben? He was the firstborn of Jacob. He was supposed to lead the family and inherit the double portion reserved for the oldest son. But one decision changed everything.

He slept with his father’s concubine, and that secret sin became a public stain on his legacy. Years later, even in the family genealogy, Reuben’s name wasn’t listed first. His privilege and position didn’t protect or preserve his place.

It’s easy to think what we do in private stays there. But as we all know, God sees everything. Nothing is truly hidden from Him.

Solomon once said, “God will judge everything, even what is done in secret, the good and the evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14 NCV).

And, sin has a way of spilling into our future, damaging relationships, disrupting favor, and affecting the lives of those who come after us.

Reuben may have thought it was just a moment of passion, but it became a lifetime of loss and change.

What’s interesting is that we don’t hear about Reuben repenting or fighting for his place.

Many regret sin, yet few confess, repent, and seek forgiveness. Also, regret does not reverse the result of sin.

The Apostle Paul told the Galatians, “Do not be fooled. You cannot cheat God. People harvest only what they plant” (Galatians 6:7 NCV). We do reap what we sow.

If there’s anything hidden in your life today, don’t wait for exposure. It will eventually come to light. Time brings all things to light.

Consider open confession, full repentance, and seek forgiveness from God and those you have offended or sinned against.

You can’t reverse your history, but you can make your wrongs right.

In confession, God doesn’t want to shame you, but He does want to set you free. Because no matter how much potential you have, the weight of hidden sin will always cost more than it’s worth.

As Jesus said, “Everything that is hidden will be shown, and everything that is secret will be made known” (Luke 12:2 NCV).

What you reveal to God, He can heal. What you hide, will eventually be judged. And there is nothing like a clean conscience.

God, help us stay pure, strong, and live like Jesus Christ. IJNIP amen ❤️