I once heard the story of a young boy with a fractured hand who hid his pain from his parents. At the hospital, the doctor asked him to present the injured hand to be cast in Plaster of Paris (POP). However, the boy tricked the doctor by presenting the wrong hand. Days later, his parents discovered his deception, finding the situation both amusing and painful.
Friend, sincerity is the rule of engagement in the kingdom (Philippians 1:10). A sincere man who’s struggling is better than an insincere person who’s feigning perfection. You need to realise that God knows you better than you know yourself. There is nothing hidden before God, so hiding your sin and struggles is just a waste of time (Hebrews 4:13).
Sincerity is being open to God. It is telling God what it is, how you feel, and what you do (Hebrews 4:15-16). Although God knows everything, He wants you to tell Him. Telling God in sincerity means that you have given Him permission to help you. God will not intrude on your life and privacy. This is why He stands at the door of your heart, knocking (Revelation 3:20).
If Jesus needed to ask Mary and Martha where they laid Lazarus, you also need to show Jesus where the problem is (John 11:34). People often assume that since God is omniscient, then He should know about their struggles and help them if He wants to. This is not the way the kingdom works. God wants you to show Him. He wants you to give Him permission (Genesis 6:3).
Wisdom only comes to the sincere (Psalms 51:6). You cannot be faking it with God and expect His wisdom to work for you in your area of struggles. Sincerity with God also means sincerity with the word of God and the man of God (2 Kings 5:25-27, Acts 5:3-10, 1 Peter 2:2). Gehazi missed his destiny because of insincerity. Ananias and Saphira also lost their lives. What have you lost to insincerity?
Your prosperity is tied to your sincerity (Proverbs 28:13). I have not seen insincere people genuinely prosperous or successful, no matter how smart, gifted, or skilful they might be. But I have seen many weak and ordinary people succeed extraordinarily (1 Corinthians 1:24-29). They are open to guidance, wisdom, and help. You need to be sincere with God. Amen.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria