Conceal or Confess?
Proverbs 28:9-17
If one turns away his ear from hearing the law,
even his prayer is an abomination.
10 Whoever misleads the upright into an evil way
will fall into his own pit,
but the blameless will have a goodly inheritance.
11 A rich man is wise in his own eyes,
but a poor man who has understanding will find him out.
12 When the righteous triumph, there is great glory,
but when the wicked rise, people hide themselves.
13 Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper,
but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.
14 Blessed is the one who fears the LORD always,
but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity.
15 Like a roaring lion or a charging bear
is a wicked ruler over a poor people.
16 A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor,
but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.
17 If one is burdened with the blood of another,
he will be a fugitive until death;
let no one help him.
Today’s Truth
Each verse in this passage is full of wisdom. And they all pivot on the center—verse 13. We cannot conceal (disregard) our sin and expect it to go well. Acknowledging our sin starts with fear (reverence) of the Lord, and He will give us mercy (instead of what we deserve).
Discussion Questions
- Where might you be misleading the upright, acting like a ruler who lacks understanding, or a rich man wise in his own eyes?
- If you don’t believe in Christ, can you think of one sin that you've concealed? For this sin, God specifically sacrificed His Son so He may show you mercy! Ask Him to lead you to this truth.
