Hiding My Guilt

 “if I have concealed my sin as people do, by hiding my guilt in my heart because I so feared the crowd and so dreaded the contempt of the clans that I kept silent and would not go outside—”

— Job 31:33-34

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

In defense of his righteousness, Job makes a statement that I know I am often tempted to do. I will conceal my sin and hide my guilt in my heart because of fear of man. I believe the lie that I am safer if I keep silent about it and do not confess my sin to anyone else. This illusion of safety keeps me locked up in guilt and self-deceit. But true freedom is found doing as James 5:16 instructs, “Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”

When I choose to remain isolated and self-protective, I am actually choosing prolonged pain and oppression. When I admit my sin and share my strongholds with other trusted believers, inviting their prayers and accountability, that’s where I find healing. Fear keeps me isolated. Dread keeps me silent. But confession brings freedom.

Lord Jesus, reveal in my heart where I have allowed fear of man to rule. Expose those areas of struggle that I have chosen to keep hidden out of self-protection. May I possess Your courage today to confess my sins to trusted people who will pray for me so that I may be healed completely and freed fully.

— In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen!

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