Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 2 Corinthians 4:2
While some people openly do corrupt and sinful actions, most people like to have their faults hidden as the refuse to get rid of the faults and reconcile them. They do everything they can to cover up any faults or shameful ways in their lives, wanting to look good to everyone else.
Paul tells the people that he has renounced all shameful ways and deception. He opens himself up to the people to see who he really is as he only speaks God’s truth.
Just as it is in the world with covering up bad thoughts and actions, many in the church do the same thing. Many walk around as though they are perfect and everyone else a failure, while refusing to change certain sinful actions.
While a believer will always have some faults, he must continually strive to overcome them, not just accept them and cover them up to look good. Acting like this is deception and a lie. It is not showing the true words of God.
To fully follow Jesus, one must be willing to renounce all secret and shameful ways–sin. These are not just the outward actions everyone can see, but also the inner thoughts that are secret and no one can see.
The believer must be living his life in such a way that he is willing to allow others to look at his life, as a open book, and see if there is anything wicked in it. Just as David asked God to examine his life to see if there is any wickedness, the believer can seek God and others to examine his life.
If there are any thoughts or actions that you know you have that are secret and shameful sins, you need to repent before God and renounce them. Begin today to live your life completely sold out to God.
Allow God and others to see the true inner you and then be willing to change to be more like Christ every day. Be an open book to others and to God, so that God can make you into a new creation that does not need to be ashamed of anything in your life.
Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Savior; that you will allow God to see your inner heart; that you will live so much for God, that others can see it; and that you will repent before God and man of all secret and shameful sins in your life.
Leave a Reply