“Be sure your sin will find you out.” – Numbers 32:23, KJV
Many people are naturally fascinated with mysteries and confidential information, which is obvious when observing popular American culture. Several dozen movies and documentaries are produced each year involving stories of the CIA and covert military operations, and countless internet sites are devoted to exposing (suspected) conspiracy theories and hidden government agendas. It’s no secret…people love secrets!
Some things, however, just can’t be kept hidden. No matter how hard we try, no matter what measures we take to prevent exposure, sin is one issue that won’t remain veiled. There may not be a single person who knows our sin, but God knows – and He will expose it if we don’t deal with it.
“Be sure your sin will find you out.” – Numbers 32:23, KJV
It’s a phrase that lurks in the back of our minds; a song that rings in our ears incessantly; a predator that stalks us with reckless abandon.
“Be sure your sin will find you out.”
We create excuses. We manufacture lies. And it’s easy to believe the lies because our human nature desperately WANTS to sin. We convince ourselves that it’s okay, although deep down we know better.
“No one has to know about this. Nobody will ever find out about it.”
So we succumb to the temptations…and we furnish false justifications.
It’s a social drink with friends…for old time’s sake. Smoking an occasional cigarette…since it really relieves stress. Saying cuss words during intense competition…after all, it’s not good to bottle up emotions.
“Be sure your sin will find you out.”
We can try to dismiss it – “It was just once. I have it under control.”
We can attempt to reason it out – “I’m bound to sin every now and then. After all, nobody is perfect.”
We can struggle to support it – “It’s okay to sin as long as I ask forgiveness. Besides, I deserve to have a little fun.”
We can aim to accept it, seek to secure it, and determine to defend it…but the Bible has the final word about the wicked pleasures we refuse to conquer:
“Be sure your sin will find you out.”
Either we will embarrass sin, or sin will embarrass us.