I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11
What things do we hide? And why do we hide them?
Like anyone, I've always hidden things I don't want others to see. As a child, I might have hidden special treasures - little touchstones, reminders of something I enjoyed. As I grew older, I might have hidden things that would have been embarrassing for others to see - little fantasies, reminders of a sinful nature that was gaining strength and control in my life.
As I consider hidden things, I am convinced that God's way is nothing like man's. With Him, nothing is hidden. Anything that He would have us hide will be seen by everyone. His Word hidden in our hearts shines to the world. His Spirit, who lives unseen in the hearts of those who love Him, is reflected in everyday words and actions.
To my human mind this makes no sense! Hide something so it can be seen? This simply doesn't compute.
Lord, throughout my life I have hidden things in my heart that I shouldn't have. I have learned that secrets about sin - like sin itself - can lead to death... the death of dreams, the death of hope, the death of a future. Forgive me for keeping things hidden that should have been revealed. Forgive me for allowing them to erode the plans You have for me. Help me, Lord, to live an unhidden life. Hide things in me that will be seen by all. Hide things that will bring You glory.