SATURDAY January 21, 2023
Secret Sin
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
Acts 5:1-2
In the early church, everything was going well. Despite persecution from Jewish leaders, the church was growing by leaps and bounds. There were now about 20,000 Jews who constituted the church. They were joyfully enduring trials and remaining in unity together. Some Christians had begun to share their wealth by selling their houses or lands and giving the proceeds to the Apostles to be distributed to the poor.
God was continuing to pour out His Holy Spirit. He was moving among the believers supernaturally. Then in Acts 5, all of a sudden, a couple in the church hindered the work of God. Just two people through their sin of hypocrisy disrupted what God was doing.
You see, Ananias and Sapphira his wife were wealthy people. They sold a possession, but became just a little bit greedy. Instead of giving the entire amount of the proceeds from the sale, they decided to keep back a part of the amount. This was so foolish, because they had the freedom to give to the Apostles whatever they wanted. Perhaps they desired to look good in front of others. They certainly did not have to lie about the amount they gave, but they willfully chose to lie. Sin entered the church.
We are so blessed by God. He has given us everything we have: our spouse, children, house, and car. Even the clothing we have on our backs belongs to the Lord. Why sin against Him? God has anointed you with His Holy Spirit. Do not grieve His Spirit: by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30). The word grieve meaning “to bring pain.”
Whatever secret sin you are hiding from people is bringing pain to the Holy Spirit. God knows your sin. You can either sin against God and hinder His work or repent and serve Him with a loyal heart. It is up to you.
It may be a secret sin on earth, but it is open scandal in heaven.
~Lewis Sperry Chafer~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
