Disappointed?

Do you think that you are strong enough not fall into certain areas of sin?
No one is immune to sin. I am convinced that as long as we are this side of heaven we're to watch out for all kinds of sin that might creep into our lives. Pastors get involved in pornography, politicians have affairs (so does everyone else it seems), bank tellers steal money, mothers beat their children. People don't usually set out to do these things, but they happen none the less.

I have a dear friend from college that had no children of her own. Finally she and her husband were able to adopt a little boy about 1 year old. I remember telling her, watch out you will have days that you will so frustrated with that little one that you might be prone to do things you shouldn't or scream and yell. She shrugged it off. A few months later...."Dana, I can't believe how angry I got at his crying, I just wanted to shake him and scream at him!"

Now, she was able to beat the urge to take her anger out on a small infant, but can you see how easy it is to be confronted quickly with a unpleasant situation and react the wrong way. Our spirit is willing but our flesh is weak.

Do you feel like if you sin badly you'll have to keep it a secret for fear of disappointing people? Not look spotless anymore? Before you just hide everything, think about this.

Maybe someone you know has been where you are and can pray more effectively for you. Maybe someone else needs to know they have common struggles like you, how else will we know if we don't share our burdens?

I have seen the power of confession. When someone takes the bold step and admits to doing wrong, relief falls on everyone else around and they can unload the weight of the sin in their own lives. We are not alone in this struggle. If anyone, including spiritual leaders, acts as if they do no wrong, pray for them. They are wearing a mask. They are a slave to the secrets in their lives.

How about we don't expect perfection from each other. I have learned to admit often how much I mess up, I think it puts those at ease around me that they can be real and seek the help and encouragement they need.

I am talking to myself as much as you.