The siding under the garage window was beginning to sag. Some exploratory prodding revealed that the wall behind the siding was spongy and weak. The next Saturday morning we began removing the siding from the garage wall to uncover the problem. It soon became apparent that rainwater had been finding its way into the wall structure for a long time. The studs and plywood sheathing were moist and rotted.  

As we dug deeper, we discovered insect tunnels in the wood, and then we saw the pale, marching termites that had made them. Soon there was a gaping hole in the wall and a nearby pile of insulation and decomposed wood exposed for all to see. Later, after much hard work, it was a great relief to finally have firm new studs nailed back in place, covered by fresh plywood.  

The termite is not the only menace that does its destructive work out of sight. Hypocrisy likes to hide itself behind the veneer of good deeds, church attendance, and fine talk. Ill will is concealed behind a sweet smile, lust is confined to the innermost thoughts, hateful gossip presents itself as heartfelt concern, and pride poses as deep humility.  

However, like the termite, sin cannot remain hidden: sooner or later, it will lie exposed like a pile of decayed rubbish for all to see. The Bible says, “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). Confessing our sins is like tearing rotted wood out of a wall. It is an unpleasant task, but corruption must be removed before integrity can be restored. What a blessed relief to experience forgiveness and renewal!  

Hidden sin the heart will harden; 
Jesus Christ alone can pardon. 

From Paws on My Porch, by Gary Miller
© 2015 TGS International, PO Box 355, Berlin, Ohio 44610
Used by permission