Devotionals

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(excerpt from Morning Meditations by Martin Wiles)
Proverbs 28:13 People who cover over their sins will not prosper. (NLT)

They were too naïve to realize hands over the face didn’t disguise bodies. Of course, I pretended they did.

Of all the games that have resisted technological marvels, Hide and Seek is one. My grandparents and parents played it with me, I played it with my children, and when they have children they’ll no doubt repeat the pattern.

I’m not sure whether the hider or seeker gets the greatest thrill. The hider often sees the seeker looking behind every door and in every closet. Will they be found before the other hiders? Nervousness can result in “Time out. I’ve got to go to the bathroom.” The seeker is also on edge, especially if the game is played in the dark.

Hiding our bodies is harmless. Attempting to disguise our sins is dangerous. Solomon claims we won’t prosper if we attempt to cover sin but God will show mercy when we confess.

I’ve been known to try and hide sins from God. I suppose I thought if my parents, friends, children or work acquaintances didn’t know, God didn’t either. Trouble is, the walls that keep them from knowing don’t work with God. His light illuminates every crack and secret crevice. And he treats my inappropriate thoughts as seriously as my improper actions. I hide and he seeks. I sew fig leaves when I need animal hides. He shouts, “Where are you.” I climb trees and try to conceal the tasteless fruit of unsuitable actions.

Sometimes the seeker gives up and the hider says, “Here I am.” God desires the same. He knows where we are-what we’ve done, said or thought. He’s just waiting on the confession-“Here I am.” The information is not for his benefit but ours.

Only as we come out of hiding by admitting our guilt can we experience authentic living. Our cover ups may not affect our relationships with others but they do with God.

Prayer: God, when we’re tempted to cover out of fear or shame, prompt us to admit so our guilt is released and our relationship with You is enhanced. www.morningliteministry.com

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