Honest with God

Discover how being honest with God can bring His peace to your heart and mind.

“Therefore I will not restrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.”—Job 7:11 NASB

Job sat listening to the accusations of his friends. His spirit filled with anguish; his soul became bitter. Some might have counseled him to remain silent, perhaps believing this would please God. But Job simply couldn’t keep silent. He felt it was important not to bottle up his emotions, but to let God know his thoughts and feelings—to be honest.

At the end of Job’s ordeal, God commented that he had spoken of Him “what is trustworthy” (Job 42:7–8) and that “despite all this, Job did not sin” (Job 1:22). While Job had much to learn, God clearly wanted him to be honest.

In the New Testament, Paul gave us similar directions when he wrote, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Paul counseled that God wants us to tell Him everything that concerns or worries us. We may not receive the answers we expect, but the Bible makes this promise: “The peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7).

Remember that your Father is waiting to hear from you. Don’t suffer in silence. Be honest with Him. Share your fears and worries, feelings and emotions, doubts and problems. As you present your petitions to Him, let Him take away troubled thoughts and fill you with His peace.

Reflection Question: What needs and requests are you bringing before God today?