Confessions of a secret sinner (4)

David said, ‘I confessed all my sins to you…And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone’ (Psalm 32:5 NLT). Julie Ann Barnhill writes: ‘If you’re tired of pretending you have it all together, it’s time to act. For too long Christian women, in particular, have believed they’re the only ones dealing with shameful issues, agonizing regrets, and skeletons in their closets. Once we open up to God, ourselves, and others, we experience exhilarating freedom and peace. A woman wrote to me: “I had an abortion when I was eighteen. Nobody knows. For years I marked the date on my calendar and grieved for the child nobody knew about and the young woman who bore the guilt alone. No more! Now I know I’m not alone, and for the first time in my life, I truly believe God is bigger than my secret – and He’s willing to forgive.” Secrets only hold power when they’re hidden. Once they’re revealed in the light of God’s love, they lose their control. However, before opening up to someone, there are some things to consider: 1) If that person repeats things others have shared in confidence, guess who’s up next for discussion? 2) Beware of someone who’s apt to offer unsolicited advice, then take offense when it’s ignored. 3) Stay away from somebody who tries to “fix” you and tells you not to worry about your secrets. Instead, look for someone who: a) has good sense and knows when to “back off” and/or move forward when you’re upset; b) is up-front about their own struggles; c) is quick to listen and slow to speak; d) undergirds their words and counsel with scriptural truths.’

Prayer Point

Father, I’m carrying so much guilt around with me, and I’m afraid that people I respect would turn away from me if they knew what I’m hiding. Please help me to share these secrets with You and replace my guilt with the peace that only comes from You. Thank You for being a safe place for me to bring my struggles into the light and begin the mending process. Amen.

Barnhill, Julie Ann, ‘Confessions of a Perfect Christian Woman,’ accessed April 4, 2011, todayschristianwoman.