Secrets. They weren’t made for all to hear.

We don’t whisper in someone’s ear, “My friend, John, is one of the most godly men I know!” No rather, most secrets are not words of praise for others.

But we all have secrets, and one day they will all be known and judged by God! This will be either a very happy moment or a very scary moment.

“And this is the message I proclaim—that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone’s secret life.” Romans 2:16 (NLT)

There are two kinds of secrets: good and bad.

GOOD SECRETS: Serving, praying and giving when no one else sees us. Worshiping God in the hard times. Forgiving your friend before they ask. Resisting temptation, and instead dwelling on the goodness of God. Sharing your faith and helping disciple them.

BAD SECRETS: Thinking we can hide our sin from God. Actions we regret that no one knows about yet. Dwelling on wrong thoughts. Giving place to pride, greed and lust. Pretending to be godly when you are not. Giving place to deception. Never caring about who will reach the unsaved.

We get into heaven solely because we are forgiven, and God sees our hearts are now seeking after Him. But our works will be judged, thus determining our level of reward in heaven. This is called the Judgment Seat of Christ. We don’t need to fear it, but simply be aware.

So let’s embrace our secret place of prayer, fasting and giving as outlined in Matthew chapter six. “When you give, pray and fast…” It doesn’t say “If you pray”, but “when you pray, give and fast.”

And what is God’s reward for our good secrets? He rewards us openly! His favor follows us. He protects us, heals us and guides us. He spares us so many unnecessary scars. And He delights in us, much as proud parents delight in their kids!

So don’t hide anything from God, because He already knows it. Surrender it all to Him. And let’s help other people find forgiveness from the secrets that also haunt them.