No Peace When You are Hiding

I have a well meaning family member who often brings my past mistakes up to me. The intention is always to show me a way in which to hide my past. It disturbs this person, that I am not interested in hiding my past mistakes.

I spent years trying to hide, cover, or avoid past sins (both those done to me and done by me). During the years that I tried covering my past, I stayed nervous and fearful. I was constantly afraid that someone would figure out "who" I was. That is all behind me now. God has shown me that I am no longer the things of my past.

I confessed all of it to God, then I let go of it. I cling to 1 John 1:9

But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.

Since I finally let go of my past, I have found a few things to be true: (these are only a few that come to mind as I type, and in no particular order)

*There is no peace when you are hiding.

* Even though you are afraid most people know what you've done,are talking about you and judging you, most people don't know.

* Once you have confessed your sins to God, and changed your actions, people don't care when they find out.

* When you are in the midst of hiding your sin, your imagination is far worse than reality.

* Sin is sin. Even though people may qualify sin, God doesn't. Sin, of any sort, separates us from God. Confession restores our relationship with Him.

* When God prompts me to share my testimony, it has always helped others who are struggling with their past (or current) sins.

* God was not surprised by my choices, and He has used them to mold me into the person I am today.

I have found that living in the light of God is much better than hiding in the dark. If you are caught up in the "hiding" game, I pray that you trust God with whatever it is. Give it to Him, and allow His peace to flow over and through you.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:15