Let’s Be Honest

MAR 27 / Sunday – Read Ps 145:18 / Heb 4:13 / Lam 5:20-22 / Ps 22 / Lk 18:9-14

Overview: We can’t hide anything from God, so let’s be honest with God. With everything. It’s good. And it’s enough.

28 / Mon – Who is this God you worship?  |  Read Psalm 145:1-21

If you want to read an encouraging description of the Lord God of the universe, this is one of the best passages you can find. What are some things that stand out to you regarding his nature and character (the Lord is _____)? And what do his actions reveal, for example, what does he do? How might these insights change the way you think about him or increase your gratitude/respect for Him? How will they affect the way you look at yourself and at others also loved by him?

29 / Tue – Honestly  |  Read Psalm 145:18

From yesterday’s reading, did you catch the significance of verse 18? It is a promise that becomes especially significant on days when the Lord seems far away and you face big challenges or you are feeling overwhelmed. Calling on him starts with being genuinely honest – honest with yourself and honest with him. What does that look like for you?

30 / Wed – He knows it all  |  Read Hebrews 4:13

God’s omniscience can be like a double-edged sword. Absolutely nothing is hidden from him. He knows everything. If you are like most people, that can be a little alarming. Not only does he know everything, he understands it all, things like motives and attitudes that color our actions. Does this help you ‘come clean’ when the Holy Spirit convicts you? It can also be comforting when you have screwed up but had good intentions. God knows your heart, even if others misunderstand.

31 / Thu – It hurts and I’m mad or I’ve lost hope  |  Read Lam. 5:20-22 / Psalm 22:1-31

It’s a fact. Life can be hard. Pain is present in everyone’s life at one time or another. We put on a mask and pretend but God knows our hearts. And he cares. Are you hurting? Are you mad at God for allowing it to happen? Do you think you have to pretend because it’s not the ‘Christian’ thing to express your honest feelings. It’s okay. God can take it. The Old Testament, especially the Psalms, are filled with honest prayers. Find those that express your feelings and pray them as often as you need to.

01 / Fri – Stay focused  |  Read Luke 18:9-14

There is a big temptation for God’s people to slide into comparison. Well, nobody’s perfect but I’m sure a lot better than him or her! As if that makes someone more loveable or acceptable. When you read this story, did you find yourself judging the Pharisee? See how easy it is? Try instead to focus on yourself and who God wants you to be, admitting honestly where you have failed, asking for help to change. That is where you will find the Holy Spirit empowering you to be more like Jesus.

02 / Sat – Thinking God’s thoughts  |  Read Isaiah 55:8-11 / 2 Timothy 3:16-17

One of the most powerful gifts God has given is his Word. It contains a standard of measurement by which any of us can see how far we fall short of God’s holiness (his utter moral purity) and our desperate need of being saved from our sinful human tendencies. Have you followed Jesus for a while now? Have you become complacent? When you spend time regularly reading God’s word, allowing his thoughts to penetrate your heart, you will begin to think and act differently.