One of the biggest problems with the church today is that so many Christians are taught to hide their struggles and sins, and in the mean time look perfect on the outside. Christians have a huge reputation for being know as hypocrites, because of the pressure to look and act perfect. People even expect Christians to be perfect, when in reality we are far from it. The only thing that is perfect is the God we serve and believe in.
Christians are supposed to be perfect, right? We attend church on Sunday, never sin, mess up, or gossip, right? Wrong. Christians sin just as much as anyone else. No one is better or greater than one another. The only difference is that Christians will be forgiven for their sins. The biggest question to ask is why do Christians feel the need to keep their sins hidden behind closed doors, when the bible tells us to do the opposite? James 5:16 says to confess your sins to each other and pray for each other. There needs to be a change in how Christians view one another and their struggles. Including views of unbelievers. We all fall short of the glory of God and make mistakes. Everyone makes good decisions and bad decisions. Christians should feel comfortable confessing their sins to one another. Lust, stealing, lying, depression, hurt, is all in the church but many of us are taught not to share these struggles or ask for prayer. People don't have a hard time confessing small stuff, like they had a tough week or they complain too much but many struggle to share what is truly on the heart. Many people feel ashamed for sinning and struggling, but it is something everyone can share in common with one another. Imagine what the church would be like if we knew everyone's sin? A common saying I have heard pastors say is, how would you feel if everyone in the room saw all your thoughts in the past week on the projection screen? How would you feel if every sin you committed in the last month was put into a list and posted in the bulletin for everyone to see? These are frightening questions for most people, but imagine what the church would be like if we actually did know one another's sins and struggles. I imagine it would be a lot more welcoming, understanding, comforting, and a place of peace. Prayer groups could be formed and strong relationships would be made with people struggling with the same issues and sins. One of our jobs as Christians is to pray for and encourage one another. I challenge you to confess your sins to one another and ask for prayer. We all struggle, we all fail. Rejoice in the fact that we can be forgiven for our sins because Jesus laid down his life for us, so that we may be forgiven and no longer be slaves to sin.
Before judging others for their sins, it is important to think about your own life first. Romans 2:3 says, "So when you, a mere human being, pass judgement on them, and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape Gods judgement?" We all sin and fail, don't judge someone for something you might do yourself. Christians, don't be afraid to confess your sins to one another, you could help and encourage others going through the same thing as you. Instead of judgement, gossip, and stares, pray for one another and help those who are struggling.
