Quiet Writings: influence of harbored sin
Harbored Sin
We may excuse, minimize, even ignore,
but if we do not acknowledge —
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,
and, to cleanse us from all unrighteousness …” —I John 1:9
THE WORDS are addressed to the saved who are striving to walk in the light and are not intended as a pattern of salvation for the unsaved. They remind us that confession of sins is an essential part of true repentance.
But the unconfessed and harbored sin is to our soul what cancer is to our body. A single cherished sin spreads its corrupting influence throughout our being. It sears the conscience; it kills our appetite for spiritual food; it stifles spiritual activity; it dampens our desire to be with our brethren and opens the door for other evil. As the Lord says, “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper…”(Ps.28:13).
Remember, no sin is done with until it is forgiven and no sin is forgiven until God forgives it. And, thankfully, He promises to forgive and cleanse as we acknowledge and repent.
Is it possible that you need to do that? Will you?
Bible Comments, 1, a publication by Joe Fitch originally intended for distribution among small congregations in Texas.
Used here by kind permission. —
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