Matthew 26:39, "My Father, if there is any way, get me out of this. But please, not what I want. You, what do you want?"

Think

Vulnerability tends to get a bad rap. In many situations, it's seen as weakness. However, when God is involved, what's perceived as weakness is precisely what gives us strength. You see, being vulnerable with God draws us closer to him and strengthens us. In today's verse, Jesus expressed utter vulnerability. Even as he prayed, he knew what was ahead: his death on the cross and, even more excruciating, total separation from the Father. Although we can never truly know what Jesus experienced, we can follow his example and pour out our hearts to God in prayer. We are only as sick as our secrets. God knows what we've done, what we're struggling with, and what's ahead. And he wants to listen. As we talk to him, he ushers in healing, comfort, and guidance that only he can bring into our lives. So, regardless of how long it's been since you last talked with God, he's still just a prayer away! Pour your heart out to him, be vulnerable and listen for his voice - he has great things to say.

Act

A great way to practice utter vulnerability before God is to pray through Psalm 139:23-24: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting." Memorize and meditate on this powerful verse.

Pray

Dear Lord, I know that I'm only as sick as my secrets. Today, I open my heart to you and lay bare my innermost thoughts. I know it's there that I'll find the healing, comfort, and direction that I seek. In Jesus' name, Amen.