Dealing with Hidden Sin
A Meditation on Psalm 19v12
"Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults." (Psalm 19v12)
Discerning our own errors can be challenging. The New Living Translation reframes this verse: “How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults.” This verse uncovers a profound truth: there are sins within us that we are unaware of. Yet, the psalmist asks for forgiveness even for these hidden faults.
Why?
The Issue of Hidden Sin
What’s the problem with sin we aren’t aware of? If it’s unintentional, does it still matter? The answer lies in understanding the nature of sin. Sin isn’t limited to wrongful actions or regrets. It’s deeper than that. It’s part of our very nature—the legacy of Adam—creating distance between us and God. This distance is caused by:
Our own wrong actions.
The wrongs done to us.
The broken condition within us.
Sin disrupts the alignment between our souls and God. Think about a time when you sensed tension in a relationship but couldn’t pinpoint why. The psalmist captures that feeling. It's like he's saying, "God, I know there’s something not right in me. I want to fix it, but I can’t do it alone.” Hidden sin perpetuates distance from God. And while it’s universal—“everyone sins”—it’s not the end of the story.
The Danger of Comfort in Sin
One troubling tendency among both new and seasoned followers of Jesus is becoming comfortable with sin. Some even use scripture to justify staying in unhealthy patterns. This reminds me of my health-conscious friends. They are meticulous about their diets and workouts, yet often struggle with injuries or stomach issues. Meanwhile, I’m here devouring Doritos and Diet Coke, assuming I’m fine. But the truth? Their disciplined habits give them long-term health, while my indulgences slowly deteriorate me.
Spiritually, many of us are like that—stuffing ourselves with content that feeds false narratives about who we are, leading to a slow erosion of our souls. We live as if everything is fine, but it’s not.
Being too comfortable in a broken world is a warning sign of spiritual unhealth. This world, marred by sin, should invoke in us a holy discomfort.
Vision for Renewal
So, what’s the solution? How do we move toward health and renewal?
Start with Confession: Like the psalmist, we must humbly ask God to reveal what’s hidden within us. Confession isn’t about shame but freedom. Imagine the relief of reconciling a fractured relationship—that’s the heart of confession. It’s opening ourselves up to God’s cleansing and renewal.
Embrace Discipline: Just as physical health requires intentional habits, spiritual health demands discipline. This means filling yourself with what nourishes: prayer, scripture, forgiveness, and love. When you neglect these, you default to the junk food of the soul—false narratives, escapism, and self-centeredness.
Pursue Holiness: Esau McCulley puts it powerfully:
“Over time, we get comfortable in our sins. They become part of who we are, a limp we get used to walking with… Sin must become repulsive again.”
I invite you to reject the status quo and reignite your passion for God.
Acknowledging Hidden Sin
Acknowledging hidden sin starts with accepting your position before God: broken and in need of His help. It requires honesty about the areas you find comfortable but destructive. And it demands a commitment to follow Jesus into the light, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Jesus himself said,
“When you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go” (John 21v18)
Following Jesus means surrendering control, letting Him guide you toward true health and wholeness.
