New Hope (Part 1) – Day 2
New hope ... without secrets
Bible text(s)
Matthew 10
Whom to Fear
Hebrews 4
2013 was a difficult year for the world-renowned cyclist, Lance Armstrong. He finally acknowledged his use of performance-enhancing drugs during a TV interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Since the U.S. Anti-doping Agency (USADA) published its report on Armstrong’s alleged lies, he lost many of his sponsors. He was also stripped of his seven Tour de France titles.
We should not judge one another. However, what I do find interesting is how any dark secret in our lives can turn into a monster, continually breathing down our necks. It robs us of our joy and peace, and causes us to take out our built-up frustration on those around us that we are supposed to love most. When this is happening, the enemy sits with a smile, knowing that dark secrets lock us up in a prison, preventing us from enjoying an abundant life.
What is the dark secret in your life? An affair? An Addiction? A dishonest deal at work? Did you maybe have an abortion? Were you molested or perhaps, you molested someone? Do you feel the monster breathing down your neck? Why not slay it by speaking to God about it?
Listen again to the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:26-28: “… for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known …” And in Hebrews 4:13 we read: Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
God sees and knows everything. His desire is for us to come to him for he is light and in him, there is no shadow of darkness. Why don’t you speak to him about your secrets? If you truly repent and turn away from your sins, he promises to remove them as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12).
Sometimes, the consequences of telling the truth can seem overwhelming. God, however, will strengthen you to bear all things. Even though the consequences might be painful for a period of time, he will help you, free you and cause you to step out victoriously on the other side, with new hope in your heart.
Do not wait until it is too late. It is far better for your secrets to be exposed on earth, rather than being exposed while you are standing before God’s throne, right? Take the decision today and know that God will never leave nor forsake you.
