Perhaps, one of the most difficult passages for us to put into practice is James 5:16. It says:
Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.
It’s difficult to tell someone else what you are going through. Now, I’m not talking about how good we are at telling each other about our stomach aches, headaches, and surgeries coming up. We are really good at telling each other that. However, we are terrible at telling each other that we are struggling with…
1. Greed
2. Covetousness
3. Lying
4. Lust
5. Evil thoughts
6. Substance abuse
7. Ugly language and silly talk
8. Arrogance

Why?
It’s embarrassing. It’s hurtful. It might make you think less of each other.
But you know what… who cares?
If we really want to grow and make a difference in our own lives and the lives of others then we have to be open, honest, and transparent with each other. Let’s tell each other what is REALLY going on in our lives. No one is perfect. EVERYONE is dealing and struggling with something in their own lives and we don’t have to face it alone. We can overcome the sins in our lives with each other’s help but only if we are willing to obey the command from James. Confess openly, honestly, and transparently.
I’m so thankful for several people here at NHCOC that have recently come to me to talk about what they are going through. Not just the physical ailments that we all face from time to time but the sin sick spiritual struggles of real christians. That takes courage. Remember you need to talk to each other. Here at NHCOC we are blessed with many people you can talk to. Of course I’m available but we have other ministers and shepherds and many others with which to be open, honest and transparent.

I love you,
Alex