The Mask of Sin

"If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them." - James 4:17

Throughout history, masks have been worn by many different cultures for various reasons. Such face coverings are usually worn temporarily, then removed after their purpose was served.

But there is another type of mask that cannot simply be removed at the end of the day. It is the "mask of sin" that we wear over our hearts. It matters not who we are or where we come from, all carry one.

We all wear this mask well, trying to hide our true heart. Some don't need a mask to hide behind as the sin they carry is very evident. In a sense, they are more open and honest about it than the rest.

No matter, we are sinners all (Romans 3:23). Funny, though, how most seem to go around without giving this a second thought. The "mask of sin" makes it too easy to sin, cover it up, and go right on sinning (Isaiah 30:1).

17th century English minister Richard Baxter, said: "The longer you delay, the more your sin gets strength and rooting. If you cannot bend a twig, how will you be able to bend it when it is a tree?"

All of us, at some time or another, will have to stand in front of God's throne and have our mask stripped away. There will be no hiding, there will be no deception, there will be no excuses (2 Corinthians 5:10).

We cannot gauge or measure the sin that is in our hearts. Nor can we compare our sins to others. Some may appear, though falsely, to repeatedly "get away" with sin, while others can't catch a break. All sin, however, will be revealed on Judgement Day! (Romans 14:12; Hebrews 4:13)

God minced no words when He told us, "The one who sins is the one who will die" (Ezekiel 18:4). Habitual sinners, and even those who aren't, live their life outside of Him. It all boils down to this: believe and repent, or suffer eternal death (Acts 2:38).

Scripture: Psalm 51:5; 1 John 3:4; John 8:34; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ecclesiastes 7:20

Prayer: Dear God, You know every one of my foolish sins; there isn't one that is hidden from You. I confess my sins and pledge my faith to You. Forgive my sins and cleanse me of all unrighteousness, amen.

Blessings always,

Cyndy