David said, ‘I confessed all my sins to you…And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.’ 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, agonising regrets, and skeletons in their closet.
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, there are some things to consider before opening up to someone:
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 offence 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.’
Ezek 40-41, 1 Pet 3
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