“He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” Proverbs 28:13 (NIV)
In our society, sexual temptation is prevalent. Christians are not immune to adultery. What if you have gone beyond your spouse for romance? What do you do when you violate the seventh Commandment by committing adultery? You can choose to continue to walk in deception or you can repent by doing what is right in God’s eyes.
Step 1: Confess your sin. Living in sin will never produce the righteous life God desires. Be honest before God about your willful disobedience. In brokenness and humility, confess your sin instantly and specifically before the Lord. God wants you to say the same thing about your sin that He says about your sin. I am reminded of a statement by Dr. Johnny Hunt, “Whatever you cover, God will uncover. Whatever you uncover, God will cover!”
Step 2: Confront your participant. Go directly to the person you are having an affair with and completely sever the relationship. This calls for drastic and fervent action. Amputate the limbs of lust and lies that connect you to this person. Do not leave a glimpse of hope for future interaction. Inform your participant that you have confessed your sin before God and that you will not continue living in disobedience to the Lord. Boldly and courageously announce, “It’s over!”
Step 3: Comfort your spouse by becoming trustworthy. Once you have gone before the Lord to confess your sin and to receive His forgiveness, and after you have confronted your participant to end the relationship, in brokenness and humility, inform your spouse of the affair. Be prepared for an array of emotions to cascade from your spouse such as anger, hurt, devastation, revenge, and insecurity. You have violated your covenant relationship with your spouse. This is a big deal! In order for your spouse to ever trust you again, you will have to become trustworthy.
Consider incorporating a Christian counselor into your plan of restoration. Commit to never go beyond your spouse for romance. By God’s grace, do all you can to comfort your spouse by becoming worthy of trust.
Pursuing God,
Stephen Trammell
Executive Pastor
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