FOUND OUT

When Moses used the haunting phrase, 'Be sure your sin will find you out' (Numbers 32:23), he did not mean, 'Everyone will find out about your sin'. Rather, this solemn warning hints at the 'strange-but-true' nature of sin itself.

Several Biblical passages describe 'sin' as if it were a living being with a mind and will of its own ... 

God cautioned Cain that 'sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.' (Genesis 4:7) 

James explains that 'every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.' (James 1:14-15) 

Paul described sin as though it were a conscious entity, making him do what he abhors and condemns: It is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. (Romans 7:20)

The statement 'Be sure your sin will find you out' reveals sin's unflagging ability to pursue you. Whether or not those around you 'discover' your sinful thoughts, words, or deeds ... sin will 'discover' you. You cannot run from its consequences. 

Sin's payback is merciless ... don't toy with it. It cannot be tamed, outrun, or shaken off. No matter how safe you think you are, your sin will find you out.

The human mind wants to rationalize temptation; 'I can resist it, I'm in control ... I'll just dip my toe into that water.' 

Paul warned: Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. (Galatians 6:7-8). 

Know this pilgrim ... the only way to escape is to be forgiven through the blood of Jesus Christ. He conquered sin's power to corrupt, demoralize, and condemn you.

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. (1 John 2:1-2)

If you have yet to do so, confess that sin has had uncompromising authority over your life and surrender to Christ as Lord.