To Cover or Not Cover Sin? Proverbs 28:13 and Proverbs 32:1

Question
Is it biblical to cover sins or not? Proverbs 28:13 and Proverbs 32:1
Answer
Psalm 32:1 Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.

Proverbs 28:13 He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

We should not attempt to cover our own sin (Achy Breaky Heart Because of Sin). This is an unjustified concealment of sin, and it does not honor God. However, we are to confess our sins (1 John 1:9). God does cover the sin of his people (Micah. 7:19). In Christ alone our sins are covered (1 John 2:2). As Paul writes:
Romans 4:6-8 David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: "Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him."
Psalm 32 and Proverbs 28 above are complimentary, not contradictory.

Answer by Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr.

Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr., D.D., M.Div. is the Theological Editor at Third Millennium Ministries (Thirdmill).