I EXPECT all the readers of this paper know what secrets are; and very likely not only know what they are, but have had a number of them. Generally, it is a bad thing to have secrets, for very often it is the desire to hide something that is bad. Perhaps for fear of getting punished for it, or for what others might think of you. But, dear children, remember you can never hide anything from God; and more, God has told us in His word, “Nothing is secret that shall not be known and come abroad.” Luke 8:17. Then there is another portion which says, “In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men, by Jesus Christ.” Rom. 2:16. So we see that it is not only that all that has been kept secret, is going to be brought out, but God is also going to judge the secrets. How often little boys and girls are tempted to do something wrong, and because they think it will not be found out, they do it. They, forget that God knows all about it, and that He is going to bring it out and judge it, too. Then another thing is, if they see it is apt to be found out, they will tell a lie to try and still hide it, and in that way they add sin upon sin.
May you remember, dear children, that God knows every secret thing, and turn away from all that you would not like to get down on your knees and tell to God, or you would not like your father or mother to know.
J. T. A.
ML 07/15/1900