January 31, Proverbs 28:13

“Did any of you see Johnny’s composition book? He lost it before recess. If you have taken it, come and see me right after school.” The form teacher announced to the class.

Writing a composition has always been the hardest task for Matthew. On the other hand, Johnny has always been the best writer in his class. That day the pupils had to hand in their two-paged composition but Matthew could not write more than a paragraph. So, Matthew sneaked back into the classroom during recess and stole Johnny’s composition book. He copied and secretly hid Johnny’s book in the gap between the teacher’s cupboard and the wall.

The form teacher just happened to pass by and saw what happened. He was giving an opportunity to Matthew to confess his wrongdoing. Did Matthew seize it? Let us look at two possible endings to the story:

Scenario 1:
Matthew did not feel sorry. He thought that nobody saw him do what he did. So, nobody would know as long as he kept it a secret. He was planning to go straight home as soon as class was dismissed. Oh no, his form teacher was standing right at the gate and signaling him to follow her. What followed was punishment by the principal.

Scenario 2:
Matthew was sorry for what he did. He remembered that God was watching even though no one was supposed to know. He remembered the verse, 1 John 1:9 and he confessed and prayed for God’s forgiveness. He then stood up and owned up to the wrong he had done and picked up Johnny’s book to return it. He then apologised to Johnny and the teacher for his misdeed. The form teacher then dismissed the class and spoke gently to Matthew. She promised to give Matthew an extra lesson a week to help him with his writing.

Which ending to the story will you choose? It is wise to do what Matthew did in Scenario 2.

Thought: Trying to hide our sins is useless because God knows everything.

Prayer: Heavenly Father please help me to have a repentant attitude and seek Thy forgiveness every time I sin. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.