Since you put away lying, Speak the truth, each one to his neighbor, because we are members of one another.
Ephesians 4:25 HCSB
“Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge. Selah”
Psalm 62:8 HCSB
“Life and death are in the power of the tongue”
Proverbs 18:21a HCSB
Are there any areas of your life where you struggle to be honest? Do you have things that you’ve kept hidden out of fear or shame? Are you afraid you won’t be understood or accepted? Do you lie to yourself?
Sometimes, it’s as small and saying everything is good when it isn’t. It may not be the right time or place to share.
Other times, we may not even recognize that we’re not telling the truth.
I’ve found there are times when I’m hard on myself, thinking unkind things that aren’t accurate. At other times, I’ll give myself grace and leniency when there should be more structure.
This is currently true in the area of my health and wellness. I’ll say I’m a failure for not walking enough steps, or eating the “wrong” food. I’ll “forget” something I ate, so that I don’t have to be accountable. And I may choose not to monitor what I’m doing so that I can believe I’m doing great, when in reality I’m struggling and don’t want anyone to know.
We all have areas where we’re a bit blind to the truth or where we’re in complete denial. When we are willing to be open and honest with the Lord, with others we trust, and with ourselves, we can begin to share our struggles and find ways to move forward.
For me, this has meant joining a weight management program where I can go for check-ins and to be accountable for following through on the most recent goals I’ve set. I have joined an online community that encourages a healthy lifestyle in a Christ-centered format. We start by studying scripture verses that make us aware of what the Lord says about us and what He has called us to do. Then we learn to grow in strength and confidence as we trust Him to help us through.
This will not be an easy journey, but knowing that I can share it with others has given me the confidence to be honest and to move forward with hope and gratitude.
I pray that you find the courage to be honest, too.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, at times we aren’t honest, even with ourselves. We may believe what the world says of us, or we may be doing things that aren’t quite right. We may not be following what Your Word says about us and what You’ve called us to do. Please help us to look to You and to those You have placed in our lives to help us live fully for You. In Christ’s name, Amen.
Journal: How can you begin to be more honest?
Porch Chair Prayers 