²⁴ Some people’s sins are obvious, preceding them to judgment, but the sins of others surface^[a] later. (1 Timothy 5:24 CSB)

In some cases it is very obvious the wrong someone is doing, where with others it may not be clear. We see this life as if through a dirty window. We do not have the clarity that God has regarding our thoughts and actions.

But we continue to judge others by or imperfect view.

Thus, when we witness someone’s actions and make a judgement about them we do not truly know what caused them to behave in the way they do. It seems as if their sin goes before them.

But in many more cases we may be witness to a life, seemingly, lived in perfect harmony with the world. Everything is in order and goes this person’s way. Yet, here too we only see the surface and we do not know what may go after them. Their sin may be following closely behind.

We must be careful when judging books by their cover. I have known many sinful men who’s hearts were as big as Texas but they were simply rough. But there sins were ever before them. I have known many very successful and seemingly happy people who’s interior life was a wreck. They seemed to have it all but under the surface was a rotting core.

To be sure, we are all both of these to one extent or the other. I am the type of person who loves deeply but also hurts deeply. I strive to live a life honoring God, but know that without him I am rotten to the core. Thus, I say these things in all humbleness, knowing my sins both go before me and follow behind.