When an individual trusts Christ as his/her only hope of salvation, things change. I have written alot about becoming a new creature, about old things passing away and all things becoming new, but not all of the new is a quick and easy thing.  It is not all quick and easy because of excess baggage.  Excess baggage can come in the form of old memories, old habits and indwelling sin.

I think at times Christians become discouraged because our spiritual leaders may not identify with our struggles.  The perception therefore becomes that everyone has it together but me.

When I was in Bible college and came into a leadership position in the student body, I fell victim to the faulty thinking that one should not admit a spiritual weakness. 

I recall a young man who brought devotions one night to a small group of fellow students.  In his devotion he revealed a weakness in his spiritual life.  I later rebuked him for admitting it.  My reasoning was that admitting a weakness may send the wrong signal to the guys listening and make them think it was okay to have this weakness.  Now I don’t recall what the weakness was, but I have regretted for years my pharisaical attitude in the matter.   I have often wished I could ask his forgiveness for my silly rebuke.

Every Christian has indwelling sin (Romans 7) and every Christian has old memories and old habits that bite at our heels every day.  When an individual becomes a Christian, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the written Word give victory.  Some things change overnight but some things  can be an ongoing battle.  Ongoing battles are one reason Christians should pray for and encourage one another. 

Don’t become discouraged.  Be faithful to God and be faithful to His written Word and victory you never thought possible will be yours.  For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10).

….let the word of Christ dwell in you richly….

Note:  Admitting to weakness or struggle does not necessarily mean one is admitting to sinning.  Giving in to that weakness is sin.

Admitting a weakness or struggle  does not need to be overly specific.  If a private sin is involved, it should be dealt with privately.  Public sin should be dealt with to the degree that it is public knowledge.

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.  Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  II Cor. 12:9