The sins of some people are conspicuous and precede them to judgment, while the sins of others follow them there. So also good works are conspicuous; and even when they are not, they cannot remain hidden.

1 Timothy 5:24-25

When you are maligned by anyone you have to consider their motivation. Maybe they want what you have, whether it is a relationship, money or a job. Whatever the situation, know that the LORD knows the situation and will deal with it in His way. Nothing can be concealed forever, and our LORD has ways of making us come clean. Only when we are clean, can we come to Him. The fact that nothing can be hidden can also be a great consolation.

We all know people who never held a position of honor, nor were they recognized for their service. After they died, we then learned of their quiet ways of serving God and the ways they touched the lives of many people. Maybe you or I are one of those people. Know that God will reward you and I.

Good works cannot be hidden. We can not hide anything from God – that is a solemn warning and a source of great comfort. Someday, we will be rewarded.

Neither vice nor virtue can remain a secret forever.

Our Daily Bread – September 17, 2004