I’m struggling today.

God whispers “Be transparent”

I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20

I am angry and fighting it.

God whispers “Be transparent”

A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.

Proverbs 29:11

I am tired and want to quit.

God whispers “Be transparent”

But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

My faith is wavering. I do not feel strong.

God whispers “Be transparent”

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29

I am crying more than I care to admit.

God whispers “Be transparent”

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

I am being controlled by fear.

God whispers “Be transparent”

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? Psalm 56:3-4

Satan is attacking me from every angle.

God whispers “Be transparent”

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. I Peter 5:8-9

As I write these words, scripture is coming to my mind. It is the only things that comforts me. God in all His wisdom has laid out for us encouragement and instruction in His word. Sometimes it’s hard to swallow. It’s a constant reminder of my failures and weaknesses. I usually know what I am supposed to do but my emotions lead me other places, off the track of what God and His word tells me.

Life is tough. But I know it could always be worse. So then I beat myself up for not being grateful enough for the life I do have. However I look at it, my mind can see the negative if I let it. And I do let it sometimes.

Most of the time, I am strong and confident and full of faith.

Other times, like today, I have to work hard to replace my negative thoughts with God’s thoughts.

Do you ever feel like this? My guess is that all of you have at some point or another. It’s my desire that we open up and share this side of ourselves. Having it all together all the time is an illusion and is not what God intended when He designed the “church”. We were created to do life together. To “mourn with those who mourn” and “rejoice with those who rejoice.” (Romans 12:15)

Do I put myself in a vulnerable position by sharing these thoughts and feelings with you? Absolutely, I do. And I know what it’s like to have vulnerabilities thrown back in your face and used against you. It hurts. Deeply.

But I believe so strongly in the shift that needs to take place in the church towards transparency, that I’m willing to put it out there.

The church needs transparency more than ever. We are a hurting people and hiding it only hurts us. Sharing with each other is part of God’s plan towards healing, in the right way, at the right time. Will you join me?

~Keeping it Real