An Honest Faith

I love the prophet, Jeremiah. He comes across as very human. He argues with God, he praises God, he weeps and he rejoices – sometimes all in a matter of a single day! In fact, in chapter 20, in the space of three verses, he accuses God, sings praises to God, and curses the day he was born. His faith cannot be described as “solid” or “unwavering,” but it can be described as “honest.”

In my experience, very few people have a rock-solid, unwavering faith. Most of them have ebbs and flows. We experience highs and lows. Circumstances in life sometimes push us away from God. Other times they draw us near. Some people feel guilty about this. In this case, it may be helpful to remember that we are not alone. Almost every character in the Bible shares this same experience!

The truth is that a biblical faith is an honest faith, a faith that has room to express anger and doubt, heartache and woe, as well as joy and praise. My prayer for you today is that like the prophet Jeremiah, you would have this kind of faith. And may you remember, God’s love for you is unconditional.

Our prayer is from Psalm 22. Let us pray: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but find no rest.

Yet, you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel. In you our ancestors trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them. To you they cried, and were saved; in you, they trusted and were not put to shame. We trust in you again this day, O God. Come quickly to save us. Amen.