We’re As Sick As The Secrets We Keep

We’re As Sick As The Secrets We Keep

Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty! Psalm 32:1-2

The first thing Jon said to me was, “Dr. Anderson, please don’t tell Tammy that I came to see you today.”

Jon was a longtime patient, and I knew him well. His wife adored him and trusted him, and together they had two small children. I’d heard that he had recently been promoted at work, and from everything I could see, his life seemed to be going well. But Jon was hiding more than a doctor’s appointment from his wife.

“I’ve gotten myself into a bit of trouble. When I travel to Vegas on business, my buddies and I like to play the tables. Tammy knows that we sometimes stop at the casinos, but I haven’t told her how often or how long. Lately, I’ve been playing higher stakes, and I’m on the verge of losing everything. But there’s nowhere to turn. I’ve thought about suicide, but my insurance policy isn’t even enough to bail out my family. I don’t know what to do. Can you help me?”

I had no idea the full magnitude of Jon’s financial troubles, but I could tell he was in serious emotional distress. If you’re in a similar place emotionally, I advise you to seek available help. You’re not alone.

“I can help, but it won’t be easy,” I said. “The first thing you need to do is tell Tammy everything—down to the last penny.”

“I know,” Jon said as his head and shoulders slumped.

“You also need to find a Gamblers Anonymous meeting and start attending regularly. They can provide the emotional support you need to deal with your addiction.”

“Okay,” he said.

“Finally, and most importantly, you need to pray. God is the Great Physician; he’s always on call, and he can heal you completely if you go to him and admit your weakness.

The next time I saw Jon, he seemed less depressed, and though he wasn’t yet out of the woods, he was well on his way to recovery. He had taken my advice, and he was no longer keeping secrets. But I suspect what had helped most was that his wife had forgiven him.

TODAY’S RX

If you’ve been keeping secrets, repent and ask for forgiveness.

Forgive me, God, for how I have been disobedient to you. Change my heart, and give me control over my words and actions. Thank you for your amazing grace.