1. Reflect on your childhood: Can you remember any secrets or actions that caused you to feel guilt, anxiety, or shame? How did you handle those feelings at the time?
  2. Read Psalm 32:1-4. David writes that when he tried to cover his sin, the hand of God was heavy upon him. What does this mean? Why might God cause us to feel guilt or discomfort? See also John 16:8 and 2 Corinthians 7:8-10.
  3. Conviction and action: Feeling convicted or guilty about sin is not enough for God. In Psalm 32:5-7, what action steps does David encourage us to take? Create a list of these steps and consider how they connect to the gospel.
  4. The impact of hidden sin: What consequences can unconfessed and hidden sin have on our lives? As believers, what steps can we take to walk in the light and confess our sins to one another? Are there times when confession requires us to make things right in addition to confessing? Read Proverbs 28:13 and James 5:16.
  5. The freedom of the gospel: How does the gospel allow us to experience freedom and joy instead of being weighed down by guilt and shame? Read Hebrews 4:14-16 and Romans 8:1.