“Success” is a buzz word that everyone seems to pursue yet very few can define. Often when success is discussed it centers on having more money, power, prestige, position, and influence coupled with a decreasing need for others. Independence becomes the chief value that often entices us to believe that one day we will no longer be in need of anyone and will be able to do whatever we want.

The Bible would call this definition of success a total failure. What would it profit a man to give the whole world and yet forfeit his soul? Do you not realize that friendship with the world is hatred towards God? This is why when many Christians hear the word “success” they discount it as unbiblical and something to avoid. However, the Bible does address success and explains several ways to achieve it.

While there are many places in Scripture we could look, this Proverb teaches us that when we conceal (or hide) our sins it will keep you from prospering. In other words, unconfessed sin prevents success. This is because the Bible teaches that you can be sure that your sins will find you out. The Bible also teaches that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. David tells us in the Psalms, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against Thee.”

Confession of sins is imperative for success but we are also called to forsake them. This means not just saying, “I was wrong” or “I shouldn’t have done that” but being grieved about the sin with a willingness to never repeat the offense. We are called to be more ruthless with our own sin patterns so that we may experience God’s compassion and grace. This compassion is what compels us to grow and mature as disciples in Jesus Christ. Mature disciples of Jesus Christ who are abiding and thriving in Him are truly being successful.

What sins have you been hiding? What sins are you still trying to correct with no desire to forsake? What sin do you treasure in your heart that you convince yourself you will never act on? May today (RIGHT NOW) be the time you confess those sins to the Lord and then run away from them.

PRAYER

Dear Jesus. I confess to you the following specific sins ________________. I have been storing these in my heart but right now I am telling you I am wrong. I thank you for dying on the cross for these sins and I believe that by confessing them I am cleansed and pure in your sight. I now pray that you would give me the strength to flee from these sins in every way. In Jesus name. Amen.