Handling The Info!

Whenever people tell us something about themselves, especially information that is very personally sensitive, they are indicating they believe we will be trustworthy with the information shared. It may also be an indication they see us as an individual who can provide some encouragement, direction, or other help. God’s desire is for His family, the church, to be a place where we can connect with others of a kindred spirit for such sharing. In light of the relationship we each have with God we should be drawn closer to each other. (i.e. 1 John 4:20-21) It is also important for us to create such a place because the advice and direction the world provides is not always in accordance with God’s standard for morality and godliness.

Someone has said, “Confess your sins, not your neighbor’s sins.”
[source: “1600 Squibs And Quips” compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

James encouraged…
“Therefore, CONFESS YOUR SINS TO ONE ANOTHER AND PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” ( James 5:16 ESV)

I cannot pardon you for your sin and neither can you for mine. When sin has been confessed to us, other than helping to provide support and direction by being there for others, the best thing to do with the information is to take it to God in PRAYER. He is the One Who has provided the means of adequately dealing with sin through the Son, Jesus Christ. When the confessed sin is talked about to others it becomes gossip which seldom provides any aid or solution. In fact, in most cases such makes matters worse, even creating a barrier to support that could have been offered. When the matter is taken to God in PRAYER it is being handed to the One Who does have the solution to sin’s dilemma.

Let us strive to be always loving and kind when others pour out their heart before us. We all need brothers and sisters who are willing to lift us up to God in PRAYER. Even as we take the cares of others to God in PRAYER we will receive the benefit of having our own focus drawn closer to Him as well.

Have a great day TAKING MATTERS TO GOD!
Carl

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