Our Scripture reading today is Proverbs 28:13, "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy."
If asked, most people would say they desire to prosper in life. One sure way not to prosper is revealed to us in our verse for today. This attempt to cover sin can be found all the way back in the Garden of Eden. It is impossible for fallen man to cover his sin and live in harmony with God. It only leads us further away from the daily fellowship we need. “Out of his sinful pride he pretends before God and people that he has no need to confess; instead, he seeks to deceive.” (Waltke) Numbers 32:23, "But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out."
The solution is found in the second half the verse: confess and forsake. We are assured that we will prosper and have God's mercy on our lives. “Confession is to take God's side against sin. It is the lifting out of one thing after another from heart and life, and holding them for a moment before God, with the acknowledgment that it is our fault, our grievous fault.” (Meyer) The benefits of confessing and forsaking far out way the challenges. We must not allow pride to keep us from being right with God and our fellow man. Take the step today towards His mercy and prosperity.