"He said to his brothers, 'My money has been returned! It’s here in my bag.' Their hearts sank. Trembling, they turned to one another and said, 'What is this that God has done to us?'" - Genesis 42:28
Within the story of Joseph's brothers, we observe the power of unconfessed sin.
From the moment they threw Joseph down an empty well to the future meeting where he would reveal his true identity, it is obvious that they all carried an immense burden of guilt, a burden that resulted in a constant fear of God's reprisal. Every single malady in their lives was probably interpreted as punishment from God for their misdeeds. Even many years later, they continued to hear the cries of their brother as he begged for his freedom (Gen. 42:21).
Have you sinned? Do you carry it around like a millstone around your neck looking for some release? The burden will never leave you, until you confess it to God and the person you offended. It is not too late. Like Joseph's brothers, the fact that you are still aware of your fault is proof that God desires you to do something for His glory, the benefit of the other person, and your own well-being.
If you don't, then you will never escape your own sin-dug pit of despondency, fear, and guilt, no matter how much you beg.
The confession of evil works is the first beginning of good works. - Augustine of Hippo
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